Photo Gallery: Troutman Independence Parade draws large crowd

BY DEBBIE PAGE

A large crowd turned out for the 20th Annual Independence Day Parade in Troutman on Saturday morning, and they weren’t disappointed as a three-plane flyover kicked off the patriotic festivities.

After the colors were presented by the South Iredell High School MJROTC, Mayor Teross Young, town council members, Citizen of the Year Ana Johnson, and Organization of the Year Troutman Ruritan Club led the parade.

The parade’s 88 entries included marching units, church groups, civic organizations, military units, classic and antique cars, Jeep and Corvette groups, emergency vehicles, beauty queens, politicians, planes, and, most importantly, veterans of the United States Armed Services.

Kona-Ice, Mista D’s Refreshments, and Old Time Concessions provided concessions along the route.

INDEPENDENCE FESTIVAL/FIREWORKS SET FOR THURSDAY NIGHT

The community is invited to gather with friends and family on Thursday evening to enjoy Troutman’s free fireworks display at the Iredell County Fairgrounds. Gates will open at 6:30 p.m. for spectators to park and position blankets and chairs at the perfect viewing spot on the midway.

Spectators can come early to enjoy live music by the Live Music by Bourbon Sons, bounce houses, and fun for all while waiting for the fireworks display, beginning at approximately 9:30 p.m.

New this year is a clear bag policy for the safety of all attendees. All items brought into the venue must be in clear totes or plastic Ziploc bags.

Blanket or chairs, bottled water, and medical items and equipment will be allowed.

No coolers, glass bottles or containers, fireworks or sparklers, tents, alcohol, or tobacco products will be allowed in to the fairgrounds.

All bags are subject to being checked by police officers.

Food trucks on site will include Mullins Madness, The Truk, Skinner’s Hot & Tasty, Randy’s BBQ, Chikas Ticas, Bossman’s Big Bitz, Lobster Dogs, Kona Ice, Landcruiser’s Local Shop & Cafe, LegenDairy Ice Cream, Old Time Concessions, AND Snack Shack Concessions.

Parking is available inside the fairgrounds. The town asks that no one park on private property.

The event is sponsored by Country Boy Landscaping, McCoy’s Services, Prestige, and the Town of Troutman.