Steady rain doesn’t dampen spirits at Houlton’s Independence Day parade

3 years ago

HOULTON, Maine — A steady rain did not deter hundreds of people from coming out to watch the Greater Houlton Chamber of Commerce’s annual Independence Day parade Sunday afternoon in Houlton.

Spectators lined Main and Military streets, as well as Market Square for the popular event. Those who arrived early had the luxury of watching from their vehicles as every available parking spot was filled.

Those watching from the sidewalks took shelter under umbrellas, sought cover underneath tree branches or simply donned rain coats to take in the parade.

Following the parade, the Houlton’s Agricultural Fair opened its doors for the second and final day of activities inside Houlton Community Park. 

HOULTON, July 4, 2021 — Cameron Clark waves to the crowd atop his unicycle during Houlton’s Fourth of July parade Sunday. (Joseph Cyr | Houlton Pioneer Times)

HOULTON, Maine — July 4, 2021 — Ted Bowers, a member of the Anah Shriners Indy Car squad, is covered with water as he splashes through a puddle during Houlton’s Fourth of July parade Sunday. (Joseph Cyr | Houlton Pioneer Times)

HOULTON, Maine — July 4, 2021 — The Greater Houlton Chamber of Commerce’s Independence Day parade went on despite a steady rain in Houlton Sunday afternoon. (Joseph Cyr | Houlton Pioneer Times)

HOULTON, Maine — July 4, 2021 — Matthew Quint of Houlton waves to the crowd during Houlton’s Fourth of July parade Sunday. (Joseph Cyr | Houlton Pioneer Times)

HOULTON, Maine — July 4, 2021 — Umbrellas and rain coats replaced traditional red, white and blue attire Sunday afternoon as a steady rain fell during Houlton’s Fourth of July parade. (Joseph Cyr | Houlton Pioneer Times)

HOULTON, Maine — July 4, 2021 — Watching the parade from underneath an umbrella are Abbie Scott (left) and Lexi McNinch. (Joseph Cyr | Houlton Pioneer Times)

HOULTON, Maine — July 4, 2021 — Jumble, a member of the Anah Shriner Klowns, juggles red, white and blue balls during Houlton’s Fourth of July parade Sunday.  A steady rain did not deter the spirits of those watching this year’s parade. (Joseph Cyr | Houlton Pioneer Times)

HOULTON, July 4, 2021 — Massive bubbles were but one of many interesting sights during Houlton’s Fourth of July parade Sunday. (Joseph Cyr | Houlton Pioneer Times)