“It’s kind of crazy to see so many people” Thousands turn out to celebrate Independence Day Parade and Picnic

Despite the threat of rain, the sun peeked out enough for thousands of people to turn out for the annual 4th of July Parade, which was followed by the Mayor’s Picnic at Iditapark in Wasilla.

The parade route changed this year, extending the trek to approximately 2.5 miles, and with over 60 entrants into the parade, there was no shortage of viewing vantage points along the route.

After the parade, crowds converged to Iditapark to enjoy a free lunch of hot dogs, chips and fruit, which was a hit as the line wrapped around to the nearby fire station.

“This is kind of crazy to see so many people out here today,” said Kim Boyle, who brought her family to the event.

Boy Scout Troop 300 was on hand providing root beer floats for a donation, which had run out of cups and spoons, which had numbered 600, all before 1 p.m.

“We had 25 gallons of ice cream, 160 2-liter bottles of root beer at the start, with 600 cups and spoons, gone,” said a volunteer parent. There were the lucky ones who had brought their own cups and were able to partake in the delicious treat until supplies could be replenished.

The soundtrack to the picnic was provided by the 11th Airborne Division rock band, who cranked out tunes from the Killers to the Rolling Stones.

“We would like to thank all of the servicemen who are here today for their service. All of the veterans and families, thank you so much for what you do!” said Wasilla Mayor Glenda Ledford, who also gave a shout out to the Rotary members who volunteered to serve food, and Heat Source, which sponsored the Hot Dog eating contest.

“Thanks to everyone that had anything to do with putting this together-the staff and the employees of the City of Wasilla. We thank you!”