Chairs lined the curb and American flags danced in the breeze as residents and visitors gathered on River Drive for Titusville’s 82nd annual Fourth of July parade. Birch beer floats in hand, they watched a festive procession unfold along the Delaware River.
“I grew up in Titusville. I’ve been coming to this parade ever since I was little. Actually, I have pictures of my father in the baby parade back in the ’50s,” said Jim Gross Jr., who moved away 33 years ago but returns each year for the celebration.
Led by Grand Marshal Patricia Brundage, this year’s parade featured a colorful mix of floats, live music, family activities, and patriotic flair. The festivities kicked off with opening remarks by masters of ceremonies David and Annette Earling, followed by the traditional baby parade, bike and scooter brigade, and a full lineup of community groups.
“I liked seeing the kids get their chance to shine,” said Mark Mulhern of Washington Crossing, who stumbled upon the parade by chance. “It was very Norman Rockwell-y.”
The River Dogs played lively tunes as faces were painted with rainbows and fireworks, balloons were sculpted into animals and hats, and red, white and blue streamers flew from bicycles. Spectators cooled off with birch beer ice cream floats from Uncle Ed’s Creamery, served in a food tent sponsored by the Prospect Heights Fire Department. Hamburgers, hot dogs, and pork roll were served all day.
The main parade featured local Boy Scouts, the Parks and Recreation Department, the youth football and cheer association, first responders, and musical acts including Freedom Brass, Uptown String, and Payday Quartet. Candy rained from floats and emergency vehicles as crowds cheered.
Putting on the event costs about $10,000, funded entirely through community donations.
For some, the day’s joy came in small packages. Six-year-old David was all about the candy—especially the Airheads—while his 10-year-old sister Juliette raved about face painting and balloon animals.
Anticipation is already building for next year’s event, which will mark America’s 250th birthday. Plans are already underway—but how could it possibly top this year’s celebration?
After all, it’s not every day you see George Washington riding a bike behind a unicorn.
