Evanston’s Fourth of July Parade: Classic cars, bands, and community spirit

EVANSTON, Ill. — In Evanston, the annual Fourth of July Parade stepped off this afternoon, featuring classic cars, marching bands and plenty of community spirit.

It’s a century-old tradition, that develops down Central street in the north suburban city, with thousands lining the sidewalks for their annual Fourth of July Parade.

“We’ve been coming to it for close to 45 years,” said Bob Stanton. “One of the best parades in the United States – It’s a small community parade, but they’ve got everything here.”

Stanton and his family were on hand for the festivities Thursday, taking in everything from the parade’s 79 entries, to marching bands and Model T’s.

Scott Stier, a 70-year-old man who still has a bit of pep in his step, owns one of those class Ford Model T’s, and said he often gets the same questions when he brings it to parades.

“‘Did you buy it new?'” Stier said, imitating the often asked question. “Well, the cars over 100 years old, so …”

Other acts appearing in the parade included the Wheelmen, who had antique bikes on display celebrating the early days of biking, and the Jesse White Tumblers, who wowed onlookers with impressive gymnastic displays.

“The whole community comes out, people from every walk of life,” said Evanston Mayor Daniel Bliss. “It’s about supporting each other in an uplifting way.”

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