A summertime staple is set to light up Sault Ste. Marie and dazzle spectators as the annual Independence Day Parade and firework display and parade returns on the Fourth of July.

This summer, attendees can expect a return to normalcy when it comes to celebrating the holiday. The Independence Day Parade is set to begin at 7 p.m. and follow its traditional route by heading northbound on Ashmun Street from the West 14th Avenue intersection. The procession will take Ashmun into Downtown Sault Ste. Marie, turn westward onto Portage Avenue and wrap up near Magazine Street. Those looking to participate in the parade must line up at 6 p.m. on Davitt Street behind the old Kmart building.

“It’s great to be able to have the Independence Day Parade again,” said Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Tony Haller. “This is a special evening for the Soo, and we’re excited to help put it together.”

The parade is put together by a conglomeration of entities with a vested interest in the Soo and who are eager to resume the event following last year. The Fourth of July Committee is comprised of the Sault Ste. Marie Downtown Development Authority, the Chamber of Commerce and the Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Floats and walking groups will have a chance to win Chamber Bucks (redeemable at businesses that are Chamber members) in three categories each worth $100 in the membership currency. The categories are “Best Overall Entry,” “Best Float” and “Best Walking Group.” Entries will be judged based on how patriotic the theme (decorations, music, displays, etc.) of the float or walking group is. The awards are sponsored by the Fourth of July Committee. Registration information is available here or by contacting the Chamber of Commerce.

A quiet zone will be enforced at the beginning of the route between 14th and 12^th Avenue. Please note this area will have no noise, music, horns or alarms.

Following the parade, Sault Ste. Marie’s firework display will blast off at dusk over the St. Marys River. Suggested viewing areas include the north side of the City Hall grounds and Brady Park.

Those looking to register or volunteer are asked to contact Haller by emailing director@saultestemarie.org or calling (906) 632-3301.