Newton Independence Day parade July 3

Newton will get to celebrate its independence a day early.

The Greater Newton Area Chamber of Commerce announced last week that its annual Independence Day Parade will be held 9:30 a.m. July 3, which falls on a Saturday. Normally, the parade is held the day of, but to avoid conflicts the chamber has decided to host the event one day before.

This year’s theme is “Party in the USA — A Celebration of Community.” Parade entries are encouraged to be created and keep with the fun theme, chamber of commerce executive director Amanda Price said in the press release.

“Following such a challenging year with the pandemic and the derecho, the Chamber Ambassadors chose this theme to celebrate things opening up again and remembering that this is a great time to celebrate with friends and family and be thankful for what we do have,” Price said. “We hope spectators will be aware of social distancing and keep in mind that not everybody feels comfortable being together quite yet. We just ask that all are respectful of those around you.”

Nomination forms for the parade grand marshal need to be filled out and turned in no later than May 24. Forms can be found at www.experiencenewton.com or at the chamber office, 113 First Ave. W. Entry forms for floats cost $10 and can also be found at the office or filled out online.

The city’s Fourth of July activities will still be held July 4 at Agnes Patterson Memorial Park, including a fireworks display at dusk. More information about the city’s activities — including music and the sand volleyball tournament — will be announced later this spring.

For more information about how to be a sponsor, enter the parade or be a volunteer, visit the events tab at www.experiencenewton.com, call 641-792-5545 or email info@experiencenewton.com.

Contact Christopher Braunschweig at 641-792-3121 ext. 6560 or cbraunschweig@newtondailynews.com