Gatlinburg Celebrates Independence Day With 35th Annual Midnight Parade

Wednesday, June 30, 2010 - by Leah Caudle

The first Independence Day parade in the nation marks its 35th year with a happy birthday wish for the United States of America on July 4 in the foothills of the beautiful Smoky Mountains.

For the 35th consecutive year, Gatlinburg kicks off America’s celebration with the nation’s first parade, which leads off in the opening moment of the holiday at midnight on Sunday, July 4, to the cheers of nearly 100,000 spectators.

The event features a special tribute to military personnel, a performance by the 129th U.S. Army Band, and members of the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, U.S. Marines, U.S. Air Force, and U.S. Coast Guard, plus vintage military vehicles, local area public safety agencies and much more.

Stretching more than a mile in length, more than 100 units will make their way through Gatlinburg, showcasing many elaborately decorated floats, helium balloons, equestrian entries and a large contingent of armed services personnel.

For more information about the parade or other Gatlinburg Independence Day events, please call 800 56-VISIT (568-4748).


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