Published in the June 29, 2018 edition

On Wednesday America celebrates its 242nd birthday, and we can’t wait!

Melrose, like just about every other community in the United States, will honor the traditions of Independence Day while reveling in the fact that we are a land of liberty.

The city-run festivities, hosted by Melrose Recreation, begin at Wednesday at 10 a.m. at the Common and will end around noon. These activities are for all ages and are free. 

Come join in the fun of the Annual Bike and Carriage Parade around Common Park. Bring your decorated bike, wagon, carriage, scooter, skateboard, or other custom ride and take part in the festivities. Parade registration is no longer required. The parade will begin at 10 a.m. sharp so be sure to arrive early.

At the conclusion of the parade all youth participants will receive a ribbon. Organizers will also have free face painting, games and activities.

Concessions will be available at the event provided by Seven Mile Church.

Here are the events:

• 10 a.m. Parade begins (10 sharp!)

At 10:30 a.m., event festivities begin with:

• Face painting

• Music

• Games, activities and crafts

In the evening, the celebration picks up again thanks to the good people of the Mount Hood Park Association.

The association is sponsoring its 33rd annual July 4th concert in front of the clubhouse at Mount Hood Memorial Park, 100 Slayton Rd. This concert is being paid for, in part, by a grant from the Melrose Arts Council.

Festivities will begin Wednesday, July 4, at 6:45 p.m. with the Middlesex Concert Band providing music. This year’s music program promises to be an exciting selection of new songs highlighting the patriotic theme of the day as well as popular show tunes. Free popcorn and lemonade for the children will be provided compliments of Golf Management Co. as quantities last.

Organizers are continuing the tradition of ending the concert with “Stars and Stripes Forever,” in which all children will be given free American flags to wave while marching in front of the clubhouse.

This is a special July 4th celebration and everyone is invited. Bring your family and blankets or chairs to listen to music in one of the most beautiful and pristine venues in Melrose.

From the very beginning, our nation’s holiday was meant to be celebrated in a particular way. The city and the Mount Hood Park Association have it just right.