By JoAnn Laird
Special to The PREVIEW
As America goes, you’re in a special place for the Fourth of July. What would be better to kick off a day-long celebration of the founding of our country than a parade? How about the world-famous Pagosa Springs Fourth of July parade? Well, maybe not world famous, but we did have an Austrian in town one year who saw it.
As a start to the parade, not five airplanes, as previously reported, but 11 airplanes will be flying over 6th Street and U.S. 160 to officially start the parade. Five of the best and bravest from our own San Juan Squadron Formation Flying Team and six of their guests from Albuquerque, N.M., the Chili Flight, will astound the crowd with their daring. This would be rare and spectacular for any major municipality, but here in Pagosa, this is what we do for fun.
As you look to the heavens, you will hear the roar of freedom. Whether by land, sea or sky, on this anniversary of the birth of our nation, remember those lost preserving the liberty America holds dear. Thank the pilots, most of them ex-military, when you see them around town, as we are blessed to have them giving their time, talent and expense simply for our enjoyment.
The American Legion flag bearers will soon follow, leading the grand marshal, horse and buggies, line dancers, antique cars, fire trucks, political floats, youth groups, rodeo, 4-H and Indian royalty, class reunion floats and all things Americana. It’s the largest attended event of the year in our little town and you’ll soon see why.
The parade will start at U.S. 160 and 6th Street, not 8th Street, as in years past. It will continue through town making a right onto 2nd Street (where it used to end), a right on Hermosa and end on Hot Springs Boulevard, just past the park. The town’s main concern is your safety. Additional parking is available on Hot Springs Boulevard.
Please remember and respect the street and parking closures that begin the night of July 3. If you forget, the town will be at your service and tow your vehicle, at your expense.
Wear your patriotic colors, wave those flags and be proud to be an American. Yes, we are very lucky to be in Pagosa for the Fourth of July.
