Rocky Fork Lake 4th of July Parade returns

By Jamie Wheeler 
Executive Director
Visitors Bureau of Highland County

The Rocky Fork Lake Business Advisory Committee is proud to announce the eighth annual Rocky Fork Lake 4th of July Parade, celebrating patriotism, freedom and community. This year’s theme is: "Let Freedom Ring at Rocky Fork Lake."

The parade will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 4, with lineup beginning at 9 a.m. Participants should follow the posted lineup signs beginning at Pied Piper Parkway, continuing around Beechwood Lane and returning up toward Beechwood Pizza.

The parade route will travel along North Shore Drive and conclude at the North Beach parking lot near the playground.

Highland County Sheriff Randy Sanders will lead this year's parade. The grand marshal is Judge Rocky A. Coss, a longtime Highland County judge and dedicated community leader.

Now in its eighth year, the Rocky Fork Lake 4th of July Parade has become the largest Independence Day parade in Highland County, celebrating the patriotism, traditions and community spirit that bring people together each year.

Best Viewing Areas

Approved viewing locations include:

• Across from Bayview at Rocky Fork Lake (Bait Shop);

• Red Barn Hardware Store; and

• Olive's Table.

As in previous years, free ice cream will be available before and after the parade at three locations only until 2 p.m.:

• Bayview Campground & Cottages, 11104 North Shore Drive;

• Olive's Table Restaurant, 10925 N. Shore Drive; and

• Rocky Fork Boat Rental, 6579 N. Beach Road.

New this year, Compass Coffee RFL will offer a complimentary patriotic cookie to everyone who stops by during the celebration.

Sponsors

The parade is made possible through the generous support of: Beechwood Pizza & Grille, Kelsey Chevrolet, Bayview Campground & Cottages, Rocky Fork Boat Rental, Olive's Table Restaurant and Compass Coffee RFL.

Parade Registration

Organizations, businesses, clubs, churches, civic groups, and individuals are encouraged to participate.

Registration forms are available at: Buckeye Boat Repair, Olive's Table Restaurant, Bayview Campground & Cottages, Rocky Fork Boat Rental, Beechwood Pizza and Compass Coffee RFL.

Participants may also request a registration form by contacting Parade Coordinator John Ingersoll at buckeyeboatrepair@yahoo.com or (937) 763-3959, or by downloading the form from the event's Facebook page.

Let Freedom Ring at Rocky Fork Lake: A Celebration of Freedom and Community

Independence Day provides an opportunity to honor the courage and sacrifice of those who secured America's freedom and those who continue to defend its values today. The American flag remains a symbol of unity, hope, and the shared ideals that bring communities together.

John Ingersoll, president of the Rocky Fork Lake Business Advisory Committee, said the parade represents much more than a single event.

"When more people work together toward one goal, it benefits everyone. Whether you're from uptown or at the lake, this is a time to come together as Americans, celebrate our freedoms, support our community, and appreciate the many blessings we enjoy. We invite everyone to stand up, show up and celebrate America’s 250th birthday, Independence Day with us at Rocky Fork Lake."

For additional information or to register for the parade, contact John Ingersoll at (937) 763-3959 or buckeyeboatrepair@yahoo.com.