By Trevor Sullivan 

The annual Fourth of July Parade makes its return to Downtown Ann Arbor on Thursday, July 4th at 10 a.m, hosted and organized by the Ann Arbor Jaycees. They are a local group of professionals who care about uplifting and supporting their community in many ways, such as event planning, partnerships, and leadership training. 

Each year, thousands of people come to watch the parade. It consists of many unique things, such as floats, bands, community members, clowns, and children. Additionally, government leaders, representatives, and appointees lead and participate in the parade. 

The Jaycees encourage adults and children alike to celebrate not only the nation’s founding, but also the 200th anniversary of the city of Ann Arbor. Afterward, people are welcome to take a cooling shower from the City Firetrucks on Maynard Street. 

History: 

In 1991, Ann Arbor hosted the first Fourth of July Parade in coordination with the City of Ann Arbor and community leaders. Two years later, in 1993, the City of Ann Arbor approached the Jaycees and asked them to take over the planning of the Annual Fourth of July Parade, which was just in its third year. The Jaycees accepted the challenge and managed to pull it off with only a few months of organizing. 2024 will be the 34th year for the parade.  

 Firecracker 5k: 

This year, the Ann Arbor Jaycees will be collaborating with Epic Races to bring their Firecracker 5K to Downtown Ann Arbor. Taking place on July 4th, the race will begin at 8 a.m. following a hot dog eating contest. Kids race free in a 200 meter dash with every adult registration. The winners will be able to celebrate in the parade that follows at 10 a.m. This event is free and open to the public. More information and sign up is available on their website: https://www.annarborfirecracker5k.com/