Lansing 4th of July parade brings community together

LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) – Red, white and blue filled the streets as people of all ages gathered at the Lansing Capitol to celebrate our nation’s birthday. Families from across mid-Michigan came together to celebrate 248 years of America’s independence at this annual beloved event.  They set up around the capitol loop to watch the colorful floats make their way through the streets.

“I feel like its just a way to celebrate the freedom we got and I think its really nice that we have a parade to celebrate it by,” said Amia Montgomery.

This vibrant display of American pride had floats, live music, dance performances and of course, candy.

“I think their favorite part is the candy,” said Jamie Griggs,  referring to her kids. “It’s just really cool to see the different entries in the parade and the different people walking and advertising different things, so it’s a good way to know what’s going on in the city too.”

Many people we spoke to have been coming to this event for many years, some for over a decade.

“We actually have been coming out here since this big one was like one so its become kind of like a tradition,” said Griggs.

This event not only celebrates the anniversary of American independence but it also brings the community closer together and gives people the chance to spend time with family.

“I think that that’s what holidays are all about and not like money and candy and presents and all of that,” Montgomery said.

“It’s a celebration of our family and our country,” said Maureen Budd. The Budd family is celebrating a different kind of anniversary today as well—9 years of marriage—So this is a week long celebration for us and this is a high point being able to come down to this parade.”

As the parade came to a close, it was clear that the 4th of July spirit remains alive in Lansing.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WLNS 6 News.