Upper Arlington celebrates Fourth of July with joyous parade

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) -- Independence Day celebrations were in full effect around central Ohio on Friday as the annual Upper Arlington civic association parade bringing the joy with floats and performances.  

Organizers shared they have been planning this parade for nearly a year and to see it come together was an exhilarating experience. “This is just a demonstration of an amazing community of people that come out and make floats,” said organizer Jeremy Logsdon. “Everyone has a full-time job but they want to celebrate the country.” 

The parade started at 9 a.m. with a two-mile route along Northwest Boulevard with packed crowds of people. There were appearances from the Upper Arlington high school band and cheer team along with out of this world floats.  

This year's theme was “Arlington Nation” and for the first time ever there was a C-47 fly over. Committee organizer Katie Widing noted to see the community come out, supporting and embracing all their neighbors at this parade every year is what makes Upper Arlington special. 

“You know, we've been a part of this committee for four years, so it's so special for us,” Widing said. “To get a chance to give back to the community is really incredible. The sea of over 40,000 people to come out to watch this parade and to support Independence Day and Upper Arlington couldn't ask for a better place to be.” 

The day's festivities ended with a party at Northam Park with two bands and 16 food trucks.