As the City of Woodstock prepares for this year’s July 4th Celebration, we’ve been looking back at our past Independence Day celebrations. Although the way we celebrate July 4th in the City of Woodstock may have changed from year to year, one thing remains the same, Woodstock shows its patriotic pride every time!
Do you remember when … skydivers used to land in the middle of Main Street just before the parade, hot air balloon rides and go cart races? How about Grand Marshall’s Corky Jones, Don Hatcher, Earl and Linda Mulkey, and Lillie Mae Brownlee? Can you remember when the fireworks were displayed at Dupree Park, the old Woodstock Elementary School field, and in the downtown City Park?
The City’s official July 4th tradition started in 1997 with the celebration of the City’s 100th birthday. The City Charter was granted in 1897. The Woodstock Centennial Commission was formed and a year round birthday celebration followed. The building and dedication of Woodstock’s Centennial Park, now The Park at City Center, was also celebrated in 1997. This year, the event is sponsored by Stars and Strikes Family Fun Center bringing us the Stars and Strikes July 4th Spectacular!
In 1997, the first official Freedom Run was held and had about 600 runners. Today, the second largest race in Georgia has numbers close to 1,000. The race was originally meant to accommodate those who were not chosen to participate with the 50,000 runners in the Peachtree Road Race in Atlanta. Many now prefer the Woodstock race for its professionalism, competition, course, and hometown feel. Tony Crawford, Pastor of Dayspring Church, still organizes the race, now in its 19th year! For more info, visit WoodstockFreedomRun.com
Over the years, the annual July 4th parade has had many organizers including the Woodstock Jaycee’s, Woodstock Centennial Commission, and the Parks and Recreation Commission. Today, the City of Woodstock Parks and Recreation Department organizes both the July 4th and Christmas Jubilee Parades with the help of the Public Works, Police, and Fire Departments. A new parade route starts at Woodstock Elementary School, circles downtown Woodstock and ends back at the school. Competition for the best float is heating up as the entries get better and better each year. Due to school being out for the summer, no marching bands will be performing; however, there is still much entertainment to be enjoyed by all!
Continuing the July 4th celebration after the parade is the festival in The Park at City Center. Guests can enjoy live music in the gazebo, children’s games and inflatables, arts and crafts, food, Adam the Juggler and vendors of all types. Stay to find out the winners of the best, most original and people’s choice floats.
Since the fireworks display moved to its new location off Highway 92, behind Kohl’s in 2002, the crowds have grown to over 30,000 spectators! The show increased in size last year and boasts one of the largest and best pyrotechnic displays in North Georgia! Visitors come early to tailgate in anticipation of the show at dusk.
More information about the parade, festival, and fireworks can be found on the Woodstock Parks and Recreation website, WoodstockParksandRec.com
to your business!