July 4, 2016
As happens every year on 4th of July, or at least the nine I’ve worked at Grand Canyon, we don’t shoot fireworks and instead have a water parade at the North Rim.
Uncle Sam made an appearance (one of the maintenance guys) with his classic truck decked out for the celebration.
And here comes the parade. First the National Park’s Law Enforcement, ambulance, and fire trucks.
Followed by Smokey Bear.
Next in line the concessionaire Forever Resort’s employee shuttle, laundry truck, housekeepers, and maintenance truck.
A Kaibab squirrely Ranger was seen.
Wranglers road in on mules.
Three rounds in front of the Lodge then off to the campground for a loop or two. Almost everybody getting very wet along the way. Although there is a dry zone and employees in uniform are not supposed to get sprayed.
Afterwards all that was left was water.
And a soggy Uncle Sam.
Funny thing, this is my 1776th post. Only a week and 240 years late.
Your photos and commentary rought back good memories, Gaelyn. Thank You!
You’re welcome George. Unfortunately the parade and attendance seems to get smaller every year. But everybody still has a lot of fun.
I love the idea of a water gun parade rather than fireworks. But I think everyone should get soaked! HA!
I wouldn’t have minded getting wet but not the camera.
Can’t even begin to tell you how much I love the idea of a water parade instead of nasty fireworks — wish more places would adopt something like this. And it looks like a good time was had by all.
Considering we’re celebrating independence it somehow does seem right to send off noisy boomers.
Ah FUN! – Have you had the chance to take in Independence Day in Independence, CA? Last time we were there candies are tossed to the crowd, s the kids ran to gather them CalFire’s antique truck came along to use its water gun on them. Water guns are fun.
Haven’t been to Independence, CA. But maybe should suggest throwing candy in our parade.
Looks like great fun! Love Smokey 🙂
Was fun.
I love a parade and this one looks like a hoot! The town of Twisp sprays water from their fire trucks during their Fourth of July parade. 🙂
I think that’s a safer idea than fireworks.
Well by gum, a fine time was had by all it looks to me. I will have to remember not to get the uniformed rangers wet if I ever attend.
Hope you do get to attend some day.
Hope you stayed dry 🙂 We have fireworks here in France tonight, Bastille Day. Diane
I did stay dry. Enjoy the fireworks. Happy Bastille Day!