BRISTOL, R.I. (WPRI) — Thousands flocked to Bristol Thursday to partake in America’s oldest continuous Fourth of July Celebration .

Hope Street was lined with patriotic revelers as the town hosted its annual Fourth of July Parade.

“It’s the best thing anyone could ask for,” Bristolian Henry Mellow said. “Bristol is the way it’s supposed to be.”

“It just gets better every year, really,” Lexi Fredericks added.

The majority of those who were front and center along Hope Street secured their spots along the parade route several hours before the parade even stepped off.

“I’ve been here since 6:30,” Fall River resident Phillip Kearns said. “My wife thought I was crazy, but there’s people that have been here overnight, so I said, ‘I am not crazy.'”

The celebration typically draws roughly 200,000 people to town, which has approximately 22,000 residents. The revelers range from native Bristolians and Rhode Islanders to visitors from across the country who simply wanted to experience the celebration for themselves.

“It’s very historical,” said Nicholas Ferries, who traveled from Oregon to see the parade. “It gives you that community feeling.”

Matthew Perry, who’s lived in Bristol his entire life, said the celebration brings everyone in town together, even if they no longer live there.

“People come back,” Perry said. “My two sons live in Maryland, but every year they want to be here.”

Bristol doesn’t just observe the Fourth of July on the actual holiday. The town’s nearly two-week celebration officially begins on Flag Day, June 14, and runs through July 4.

“Bristol is such a special place this time of year,” Bristolian Kelly Thompson added. “Being able to see people just enjoy themselves is my favorite part. It’s just really special to see that people still appreciate our country and what we’re doing here.”

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

Daily Roundup

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WPRI.com.