34th annual Independence Day parade comes back in Tumwater

Tumwater hosted its 34th annual Independence Day parade on Monday, bringing back a local tradition absent for two years since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The show had an array of acts, ranging from multiple car shows to performances from local dance studios. At 11 a.m., spectators lined up on Lee Street and Israel Road to watch the parade.

Onlooker and local Tumwater resident Lisa McCarty came with her family and said it felt good to have the parade back and that she was excited to see the different acts. She also lauded the community aspect of the event, with its diverse group of acts that showcase local businesses and authorities.

“Sometimes you see someone’s kid in the parade,” she said. “It’s an excuse to get out of the house and not have to walk too far.”

Participants in the parade were also happy to have the event back this year. American Legion Cannoneer David Belles said he has been part of the parade for over 10 years and was excited to be back and actually be able to set off the cannon. He said he was part of a parade last year at the Tumwater City Hall, but was not able to fire the cannon.

“We had the cannon,” Belles said, “but we had a flag that had a rod that went down the length of the cannon. We pushed the rod, and it said ‘Boom!’ on the flag.”

Belles said that he was relieved to be able to be part of the parade this year.

Decked out in red, white and blue colors, the parade’s car shows featured vintage cars, Corvettes, Mustangs and other well-known vehicles. The event also showcased the Marine Corps League, Veterans of Foreign Wars and the army.

Other acts included those from local schools like Tenino High School’s band, Black Hills High School’s cheer and football teams, Tumwater High School’s cheer squad and the Johansen Olympia Dance Center.

Children from the Thurston County Fair pulled rabbits and chickens in wagons down the road. A truck painted with black and white spots made cow noises before dropping fake cow patties out of the back of the truck, waiting to be scooped up by one of the participants in the show.

Local politicians such as Tumwater Mayor Debbie Sullivan, Olympia Mayor Cheryl Selby and Tumwater City Council members drove by and waved. U.S. Rep. Marilyn Strickland also made an appearance at the event.