Cedar City Sets Record For Independence Day Parade This July 4

Cedar City's annual Independence Day Parade is set to be one of the largest in its long history, with organizers promising an expanded patriotic celebration as the community marks the nation's 250th anniversary year.

Speaking on the Big Picture Morning Show on KSUB radio, Spirit of '76 Pageant Chairman Matthew Carling said this year's Lions Club parade will feature a record 64 entries during its 87th year, making it the largest parade the organization has ever presented. The parade begins at 9 a.m. Saturday, July 4, at the intersection near the Southern Utah Museum of Art before traveling east and then north along Main Street to Main Street Park.

Courtesy Matthew Carling

Carling said the Spirit of '76 Pageant has also grown, featuring 12 historical floats, more than 100 actors, and several new additions. Among them is the cast of The Forge Center for the Arts' production of "1776," which will join the pageant near the Declaration of Independence float. "We've got some new things going on," Carling said during the interview.

Pageant Brings Patriotic Element To The Parade

Now in its ninth year, the pageant was created to add a stronger patriotic element to the parade by depicting scenes from America's founding era. Animated by costumed actors, the historical floats interact with spectators while using music and narration to bring history to life. Carling, who portrayed Patrick Henry for six years before assuming leadership of the pageant, said it has become one of the parade's signature attractions.

Spectators can also expect several new historical military portrayals this year, including a fully equipped Continental Army soldier, a World War II serviceman, and a member of the Mormon Battalion. Carling said the Lions Club has also arranged military flyovers and a display by the Utah National Guard featuring a Paladin self-propelled artillery vehicle.

Courtesy Matthew Carling

The pageant continues to emphasize the role of faith during the nation's founding, including a Valley Forge scene depicting George Washington in prayer. "We unabashedly portray that in the pageant," Carling said.

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Carling encouraged residents and businesses to embrace Mayor Steve Nelson's and Councilman Scott Phillips' "Paint the Town Red, White and Blue" campaign by decorating throughout the city and wearing patriotic colors during the festivities.

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Matthew Carling in studio - Dr. T / Canva Design

Following the parade, celebrations will continue throughout the afternoon in Main Street Park with music, vendors, and family activities before the community gathers Saturday evening for the annual fireworks display near the Cedar City Regional Airport. Carling advised parade-goers to arrive early, bring hats or umbrellas for shade, and prepare for a parade lasting well over an hour.

Listen to the entire interview with Matthew Carling in the podcast below.