Laconia Independence Day parade called a success

By ALANA PERSSON, LACONIA DAILY SUN

LACONIA — The streets were filled with parade participants and supporters, as hundreds of people came out to support the Laconia Independence Day parade.

A couple of months ago, a parade to celebrate the Fourth of July was facing cancellation due to the overwhelming number of events the city had already scheduled for the holiday. However, because of the collaboration between community members, Heidi Follansbee and Sarah Jenna, and city officials such as Amy Lovisek, the parade continued according to plan.

The parade this year featured over 40 groups of people. Those who participated in the parade included: Lakes Region Flag Football, American Legion Auxiliary, Laconia Police Department Color Guard, Lakes Region pageant girls, Axis band, the Belknap Mill Historical Society, Gilford Historical Society, 4-H, Rusty’s Towing, Bertocchi’s, First Student, WEMJ radio, the Laconia Middle School band, Frates Dance, Make-a-Wish Foundation, the Winnipesaukee Warriors, Girl Scout Troop 10249, Crack the Code Escape Room, the Taylor Home, Dawson Farm, and the local fire and police departments.

“There was a great vibe and a lot of people came out to take part in the event,” said Jenna. Follansbee echoed Jenna’s statement, saying she was happy so many people were there to celebrate the holiday.

Other participants in the parade included individuals that opened antique cars, appearances by city officials such as Mayor Ed Engler, and families who walked in the parade. Those who were walking in the parade were said to have thrown nearly 100 pounds of candy to kids watching. A large portion of the candy thrown during the parade was provided by community member Bonnie Mooney.

The Laconia Middle School band was one of two live performing groups in the parade. The marching band was led by music teacher John Cardin, and was composed of mostly middle school students who had just completed the optional band camp offered during the last week in June. Cardin said he was excited to be part of this parade again and was glad to see so many people in attendance. The other live band was the group Axis, which performed songs like “Summer of ’69” while riding on a Fourth-of-July-themed float.

“The entire parade would not have been possible without the help of so many people,” said Follansbee. “I was really happy with how it all turned out, and am thankful for everyone who helped make the parade a success.”