Fourth of July Festivities Planned for Downtown

A colorful parade and spectacular fireworks display July 3 will highlight the borough Fire Department's 55th annual Independence Day celebration, chairman Jeff Fricke said in a news release sent by the borough Police Department.

The 50-unit parade features nine bands, eight fire departments and numerous community organizations. The Psycho 78s Roller Derby Team—a new entry this year—will participate.

The parade begins promptly at 10:30 a.m. on Main Street at Hillside Avenue and proceeds west to Chatham Middle School. The parade's grand marshal is 43-year veteran Don Tracy, who has been captain, lieutenant, secretary and treasurer of the hose company during his tenure. 

Tracy started the Exempt Firemen's Association and held numerous offices there. He has also been a member of the Department's Mutual Benefit Association for 20 years.

Prior to the parade, the Whippany VFW will conduct flag-raising ceremonies at 9:15am at Firehouse Plaza. Mayor Nelson Vaughan and Borough Council members will then formally inspect borough firefighters.

A fireworks display behind the middle school on Main Street begins at dark. Early arrivals will hear a variety of music from today and yesterday by The Magic Moments featuring Gina & Pepe.

Gates open at 7 p.m. and the entertainment begins about 7:30pm.

Fricke said any types of fireworks or sparklers are illegal and banned from the school grounds. Violators will be ejected and subject to arrest.

The rain date for the fireworks is July 5.

Stay tuned for a list of street closures from the parade.