Parade goers refuse to let rain ruin the Edmond LibertyFest parade
EDMOND, Okla. (KFOR) — It's a tradition that has spanned decades for the City of Edmond and countless families. Although it rained on the LibertyFest Parade, American spirits were still booming.
"I love the 4th of July," said Andy McCormack. "It's really fun."
LibertyFest in downtown Edmond was a runway for the red, white, and blue.
For 53 years, it's been a tradition for generations of families.
"We come out here with our grandparents every single year," said Aubrey and Reese Robichraux. "Since we were probably babies."
Clearly, Mother Nature made sure this year was different and one to remember. There were several umbrellas and rain jackets.
"It's like the first time I'm pretty sure that it's rain. So that's kind of fun. Super hot last year. So I'm glad it wasn't hot," said the Robichrauxs.
The celebration is run by the First Christian Church. Staff there were trying to help spectators stay comfortable and keep their bellies full.
"We also offer breakfast burritos. This is made by a team. They made 516 this year," said John Regan.
It was an effort to fund their free "Breakfast on Boulevard Program," which provides free breakfast every weekday.
The Independence Day celebration had a little bit of everything, from floats, Boy Scouts, and even jazzercise.
"We had some friends in the parade this year, which was super fun to watch," said Aubrey Robichraux.
Maybe you saw News 4 make an appearance. Dylan Brown and Sydnee Batzlaff chanted with the crowd.
"USA! USA!" they cheered.
Others lined the streets to cheer on those who were there, not for entertainment, but for security, like Lavender Payne. She was there to cheer on her dad.
"He's a cop and he has to run. Make sure everyone's safe," said Payne.
These Americans refused to let rain ruin their parade.
Flags still waived, feet still danced, and freedom still rang loud and proud.
"Happy 4th of July!" said the Robichrauxs.
LibertyFest doesn't stop at the parade. Fireworks at Hafer Park start at 9:30 p.m.
Saturday morning, at 8 a.m., families will line up for the LibertySprint at Mitch Park.