Area residents came out in droves to celebrate Independence Day in Atwater — a 61-year tradition that only keeps growing year after year.
The town’s 4th of July festivities are renowned throughout the region, and are known for attracting visitors far and wide. This year was no exception, and despite the parade route being extended, the sidewalks were still filled with those eager to see what Atwater had to offer.
The parade was a grand display of patriotism. Floats from local schools, organizations, churches, businesses, and dignitaries walked down the streets of Atwater. Assemblywoman Esmeralda Soria and Congressman John Duarte were among those participating in the parade, as well as members of the Atwater City Council, county supervisors, and prospective candidates, including Adam Gray and Joanna Garcia Rose.
It is the one time each year where you can see classic tractors next to top-of-the-line modern farm equipment, cheerleaders and school bands, and ranchers on horseback — all proudly waving the American flag. The motorheads who watched the parade should have been particularly excited to see everything from small engines to Model A’s and everything in between.
The festival at Ralston Park accompanying the parade had something for everybody. On one corner people could go to cool off in the shade of the APC Hall with a cold beer and listen to live music, while over at the Atwater Women’s Club there was the renowned Rotary Rib Shack, a popular choice to eat at year after year.
The amount and types of vendors was even greater this year than in past events, so attendees had their choice of different types of food, ranging from soul food to shaved ice.
As with each year, the Atwater Fourth of July committee, with the help of their sponsors and everyone who attended, presented a beautiful event where families from Atwater and beyond had the opportunity to come together and celebrate our nation’s freedom.