Enter O’Fallon’s Independence Day Parade

Clubs, civic organizations, bands, churches, scouts, businesses and others are invited to get creative and join the competition for trophies and prizes in O’Fallon’s annual , which will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 4, in downtown O’Fallon.

This year’s theme is “Salute Our American Heritage.” The “Mayor’s Choice” award and “Best Overall” category will be judged on how well an entry expresses the parade theme, with prizes of $500, $400 and $300 awarded to the top three Best Overall.

In addition, prizes of $200 for first place and $100 for second place will be presented to the “Best Musical Float” and “Most Patriotic Float,” and trophies will be awarded for “Best Color Guard.”

All entries will receive extra points for incorporating music and mechanical movement as well as the parade theme.

To help entrants, a complete list of rules, requirements and awards are listed on the applications, which can be picked up at the Renaud Spirit Center, City Hall, or the Parks and Recreation Office. Applications also are available online at www.heritageandfreedomfest.com.

Completed applications are due by noon on Friday, May 25.

The Freedom Fest will open at the Ozzie Smith Sports Complex with carnival rides on July 2 and continue July 3-4, with headline music, family entertainment, kids’ activities and fireworks.

For more information, contact msteinmann@ofallon.mo.us or call 636-379-5574 or 636-379-5605.