RIDGEFIELD PARK, New Jersey (WABC) — Ridgefield Park partied like it was 1776 for the community’s Fourth of July parade on Saturday.<\/p>\n
Spectators found a shady spot along the route, which started at Hudson Avenue and Preston Street before heading west to Roosevelt Avenue, north toward Union Place and then west to Main Street.<\/p>\n
That’s where we found the bulk of patriots, both young and old, locked into one of the oldest Fourth of July parades in New Jersey.<\/p>\n
And of course this year is extra special as America celebrates its 250th birthday.<\/p>\n
The big day kicked off with several events, including a review and ceremony for the fire department – plus the highly anticipated kids parade.<\/p>\n
“We’ve been living here for about nine years now and this is probably the fourth or fifth time we’ve come, and it just gets better and better every year,” said Ridgefield Park resident Brittany Watford.<\/p>\n
Others agreed and said it’s what keeps them coming back.<\/p>\n
“It’s just the spirit of community, the creativity, the tradition, and just the love that people have for the community as well as the country,” said Ridgefield Park resident Giselle Holloway.<\/p>\n
The mayor said he expects a couple thousand people to visit the area. While the village rolled out a heat safety plan, the mayor admits the high temperatures may discourage some from coming out.<\/p>\n
As a precaution, they put out extra water stations and have more police on the street keeping watch, as well as EMS.<\/p>\n
This year you might notice the red, white and blue stars along the parade route – an added touch to make this year’s event extra special.<\/p>\n
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