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July 4 Celebration First Event For OES
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The spirit of independence has made its way to Oakdale.

As ‘Safe and Sane’ firework booths have begun to set up for sales and barbecue plans start to unfold, the Oakdale Enrichment Society is busy with final preparations for the Inaugural Fourth of July Celebration.

The event, which will be hosted this Saturday, June 29 will begin with a parade starting at 6 p.m.

“This is first come, first serve basis,” OES Vice President Cher Bairos said of the inaugural parade.

The parade currently has close to 30 entries, with more still expected. There is no entry fee and participants are welcome to simply show up the day of the parade to participate in the merriment.

According to club secretary Lisa Ballard, a portion of Oak Avenue will be blocked for the parade.

“People need to come down Lee Avenue, in between Fair Oaks and the FES Hall,” she said. “First come first served, they’ll make a right at Poplar and line up.”

Participants are encouraged to begin lining up as early as 5 p.m. The parade starts at 6 p.m. and ends at Second Avenue and B Street.

Both women shared their excitement for the parade as well as the overall event, noting that neighbors throughout the route shared in their excitement as they were alerted to the street closures and parade happenings.

“I’ve heard all positive. I don’t think I’ve heard one negative,” Ballard stated. “People are so excited about it.”

A self-proclaimed parade lover, Bairos noted the importance of community and gathering which is encouraged by events such as parades.

The parade will conclude just a bit south of Dorada Park where the community will then be treated to live music, events for children, as well as food vendors who will be set up in the southwest parking lot.

“It’s basically a concert in the park, so if you want to bring something (to eat), bring something,” Ballard said. “If you want to buy something, it’s offered there.”

“Bring chairs or blankets to sit on, whatever you’re comfortable with,” Bairos added.

Ballard shared she anticipates about 200 in attendance for the inaugural Fourth of July celebratory event. A number she shared she was excited for and expects to see grow as the event does.

“I believe it’s going to be a great turnout, I really think it is,” she said.

“Everyone is encouraged and welcome to come,” Bairos added.

For additional information on the first time event visit the Oakdale Enrichment Society Facebook page or contact Bairos at (209) 496-1134.