Essex 4th of July Celebration at Park Street Park. A++++++

[David Shea]

Hello all,

We just got back from the Essex Junction 4th of July celebration.  Really nicely done!  They had a dog show that featured canines catching frisbees.  Top Hat Entertainment had 4 bounce structures.  A live band was playing.  Activities for young children including face painting.

The fireworks were excellent and finished just as the rain started to fall.

Great Event.  Thanks Essex Junction Recreation Department.

Dave

[edakrupp]

I grew up in Essex, right behind ADL, and spent my youth and childhood at that park. I love it. That town knows how to get things done right. It has a very active community, and welcomes everyone! It shows in their community spirit.

[dearon]

I was at Fred Peet's annual party on Pinnacle drive (off Spear St.) in South Burlington on the 3rd which coincides with the Burlington fireworks.  Great food and beverage, bouncing structure for the kids and Fred and his family opened his entire house for the guests. Governor Douglas was one of the guest, we all enjoyed the personal fireworks display as well the Burlington fireworks that could be seen.  
I hear Milton had a pretty good family day yesterday as well with a chicken barbecue, bands, and fireworks display.  We decided to stay home out of the cold and rain, we enjoyed the personal fireworks that some residents put on.  
There is always plenty of choices on the fourth if your town doesn't celebrate it.

(Thanks for the spell check Henry:)

[David Shea]

My family also went to the Milton 4th parade.  ( I stayed home to get some work done.)  My wife and kids really enjoyed it and they came home with lots of candy and smiles on their faces.  It brought back memories for me of when I was a kid and went to the Fairfax 4th of July parade.  At the time, I was 6 years old or so, the parade seemed like the biggest and best thing.

As for the Essex Parks Department, they do a great job and I am sure also have a great budget.  I like to take my kids to the Maple Street Pool in the summer.  The staffing levels are huge, at least 10 life guards.  I feel that my kids are quite safe here.

I am glad that some of the bigger towns close by are able to offer such nice programs.  I encourage anyone who wants summer time options for family entertainment to check out the Essex Rec Department.

Dave