Independence Day

Annual patriotic parade set to march through downtown Northville

The parade may not start until 10 a.m. July 4, but in Northville, the celebration begins much earlier in the morning as crowds line the streets waiting for the bands, floats and community groups to march past celebrating the national holiday.

The parade, organized by the Northville Chamber of Commerce, will include many of the marchers and floats residents have come to expect including Lady Liberty, the fire trucks and public safety equipment along with many public officials in special vehicles. The tooth fairy will be there, too, along with several other traditional marchers and floats. Chamber Executive Director Doug Wallace who began his new job in February said he was a bit surprised at the popularity and tradition of the event.

“People literally start marking their spots and setting up picnics the night before,” he said. Participation this year is increasing and Wallace said he is sure the event will be as entertaining as it has been in the past. The chamber only assumed responsibility for the parade a few years ago after the Northville Community Foundation was no longer able to continue to manage the event. Wallace admitted the parade and all the exhibits and floats was time consuming, but said he was confident the event would be a success.

More than 40 marchers had confirmed their appearance in the event earlier this month and Wallace said he expected many others to join in the celebration. His goal, he said, was to make the parade longer than last year when it was limited by the pandemic and more enjoyable for the public. 

“I can't wait to see it for myself and be a part of it,” Wallace said. 

Immediately following the parade one of the historic treasures in the community will celebrate the 246th birthday of the country with special events from 11 until 3 p.m.

Mill Race Village, located at 215 Griswold St. in Northville will host Citizens of the American Colonies reenactors who will present skirmishes and recite the Declaration of Independence. An interactive signing of the Declaration of Independence will offer guests the opportunity to participate in the historic event.

The Mill Race Village historical museums will be open for guided tours and live demonstrations will be presented at the Blacksmith Shop and the Weavers Cottage.  The JM Mead General Store will be open for visitors and refreshments will be available onsite for purchase, including hot dogs, Kettle Corn, Popsicles, ice cream, and cold drinks. A Victorian creme tea will be hosted in the Cady Inn.