The city of Takoma Park celebrated the Fourth of July with its traditional parade, a vibrant event that has been a staple for 136 years.
The two-hour procession featured a diverse array of participants, including local politicians, community groups, and even a humorous motorized cupcake, reflecting the town’s unique character.
Onlookers lined the downtown streets, cheering for various entries, from spirited bands to unconventional floats such as a pickup truck adorned with a silver inflatable spaceship.
Among the notable entrants was ‘Nimbee,’ a costumed character from the satirical blog The Takoma Torch, who entertained the crowd by boxing with ‘developers’ and riding a runaway horse inflatable, referencing a memorable moment from last year’s parade.
U.S. Representative Jamie Raskin (D-Dist. 8) was a highlight of the event, garnering enthusiastic applause as he waved to attendees while dressed in a stylish blue windowpane suit paired with sneakers.
He often stopped to greet supporters along the route, demonstrating his local connection and rapport with the constituents.
This year’s parade was marked by a significant undercurrent of protest.
Several groups utilized the event to express their opposition to the Trump administration’s policies.
Protesters held up signs with slogans such as “No Crown For A Clown” and “Moms Against DOGE,” taking a stand against various governmental policies, including actions related to the Department of Government Efficiency previously overseen by Elon Musk.
Former Takoma Park resident Erik Hanson, now living in Greenbelt, shared his thoughts on this year’s festivities.
Having attended the parade for many years, he noted, “I came to the so-called ‘People’s Republic of Takoma Park’ because it seemed like a good place to celebrate the 4th of July … hopefully not for the last time.”
Hanson expressed anticipation for next year’s parade but hinted it might take on a more militaristic appearance.
Reflecting on past events, he noted that political campaigning was less prevalent this year, a welcome change as it is not an election year.
In addition to Raskin, other politicians participated including Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich and several members of the county council, ensuring a strong representation of local leadership.
Parade-goer Katelyn Gallagher, who has made it a tradition to bring her children to the event, expressed the importance of the day’s significance.
She conveyed to her 4-year-old the historical context of independence, saying, “Today celebrates the day that America said we don’t want to have a king, so that’s something that we’re thinking a lot about these days.”
Her children enjoyed whimsical sights, including a Ford Bronco with a model UFO and green inflatable aliens.
Gallagher, like many others, appreciated the political messages woven into the festivities, saying, “I think it’s a challenging time to feel patriotic these days.”
The parade also saw residents from the nearby Victory Tower, a senior living facility, watching from the sidewalk.
Elayne Cohen shared her intention to support her grandson marching with the West Hillandale Swim Club, but her sentiments regarding the state of the nation were clear: “Get rid of our president.”
Thus, Takoma Park’s Independence Day parade once again stood as a platform for both celebration and political expression, uniting the community in both merriment and reflection.
image source from：bethesdamagazine
