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Meeksville in northern Pike County is known far and wide for its annual Fourth of July Parade.

The parade tradition began across the way at China Grove and continues at Meeksville.

Earnest Green, a longtime member of the sponsoring Meeksville Fire Department, said the annual Fourth of July Parade was a tradition too good to let go, so was moved to Meeksville.

The Fourth of July is a salute to the United States of America, to all those who have fought for and defended the American way of life and the blessings of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. That’s what the Fourth of July is all about, Green said.

“So, we invite everyone to come to Meeksville on Thursday, the Fourth of July and celebrate Independence Day right here in Pike County,” Green said. Parade lineup be at the Meeksville Fire Station and store and end at Harmony Park,

Freddie Turner, a veteran and dedicated community servant, will be the Grand Master of the

The Meeksville Fourth of July Parade.

“Everybody is invited to parade with us,” Green said. “We’ll have horses, floats, classic cars, motorcycles, golf carts, bicycles and some people will even walk.”

The annual Independence Day Parade will end with entertainment and a food-fest at Harmony Park.

Green said, for starters, there will be barbecued ribs, pulled pork, chicken and, hotdogs for the kids, and ice-cold homemade lemonade.

From Troy, the best way to the parade lineup, roadside viewing and to Harmony Park is County Road 7714.