Willimantic holds annual July 4th boombox parade

WILLIMANTIC, Conn. (WTNH) — The annual “Windham Boombox Parade” happened on Thursday to celebrate Independence Day.

The non-conventional parade tradition started in 1986, when the town couldn’t find any marching bands for their Memorial Day parade. Five weeks later, the boombox parade was born. The town told everyone to bring their boomboxes, and the parade proceeded that way.

Thousands filled the streets to watch. One parade float in particular is a hit year after year — the traveling fish head float of Northeastern Connecticut. The float is exactly like the title, and takes multiple people each year to carry the giant fish head down the street.

Parade watchers got to enjoy the music, floats and snack on candy being passed out by parade participants.

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