Van Alstyne, Texas, hosted a large Fourth of July parade on Saturday, marking the first time the community has held the event in 15 years. The procession featured more than 70 entries moving through downtown streets, accompanied by sirens and displays of American flags.
City officials described the gathering as a way to honor the nation’s 250th anniversary. Mike Shaw, the city’s marketing and media manager, stated that local leaders aimed to make the celebration significant. He noted that the community is striving to be recognized as a highly patriotic area.
Kandi Hessel, the city’s events and recreation manager, highlighted the strong local response to the return of the parade. She described the event as having a competitive element, with residents showing strong support for the return of the tradition after a long hiatus.
Following the procession, the American Legion Post 376 honored a local resident as the hometown hero. Richard McCabe, the post’s commander, explained that the selection process focuses on finding a veteran who actively works within the community.
The day’s festivities concluded with live music and fireworks displays after dark. Shaw remarked that the community intended to celebrate with the same energy as the nation’s founding era.
Organizers expressed hope that the parade will become an annual tradition rather than a one-time event. Hessel said the city looks forward to continuing the celebration for families in the years ahead.
