The town of Bristol, Rhode Island, is celebrating its 240th annual Independence Day parade, America's oldest. Festivities began on Flag Day, June 14th, and include a pageant, field day, carnival, and concerts, culminating in the 2.5-mile Military, Civic and Firemen’s Parade on July 4th. The tradition started in 1785 with Patriotic Exercises led by Reverend Henry Wight and evolved into a formal parade in the early 1800s. This year, the USS Billings (LCS-15) is the visiting U.S. Navy ship.
America's oldest Independence Day parade marks 240 years of patriotic tradition
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TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️The town of Bristol, Rhode Island, is celebrating its 240th annual Independence Day parade, America's oldest. Festivities began on Flag Day, June 14th, and include a pageant, field day, carnival, and concerts, culminating in the 2.5-mile Military, Civic and Firemen’s Parade on July 4th. The tradition started in 1785 with Patriotic Exercises led by Reverend Henry Wight and evolved into a formal parade in the early 1800s. This year, the USS Billings (LCS-15) is the visiting U.S. Navy ship.
- 1 1785: First known Patriotic Exercises in Bristol.
- 2 Early 1800s: More formal parade formed.
- 3 June 14, 2015: Michael Rielly took over as Town Crier.
- 4 June 14 (this year): Celebrations began on Flag Day.
- 5 Weeks leading up to July 4th: Various events held.
- 6 July 4th (this year): Festivities conclude with the Military, Civic and Firemen’s Parade.
- Continuation of a long-standing tradition
- Community engagement
- Patriotic celebration
What: Bristol, Rhode Island, is hosting its 240th Independence Day parade and related festivities.
When: July 4th (parade conclusion); 1785 (first celebrations); early 1800s (formal parade formed); June 14th (Flag Day, start of celebrations); this year (USS Billings visit).
Where: Bristol, Rhode Island, New England; Town Common.
Why: To celebrate Independence Day and continue a 240-year-old patriotic tradition.
How: The town hosts various events leading up to July 4th, including a pageant, field day, carnival, and concerts, culminating in the Military, Civic and Firemen’s Parade.