Large crowds in Wayland for Fourth of July parade

WAYLAND — Following a breakfast from the local Lions Club, the little town of Wayland celebrated the Fourth of July in a big way like only little towns really can.

After filling stomachs with a hearty breakfast, people filled the sidewalks as they enjoyed an hourlong parade through town.

Tim Meyer announced parade participants as they made their way past Wayland City Hall during City Clerk Beverly Conrad’s favorite part of Wayland’s Fourth of July festivities.

According to Conrad, people come from all over just for the parade in Wayland.

The parade started off with many firetrucks from surrounding towns, antique tractor, truck, and car owners showed off their favorite wheels, and floats from local businesses and organizations tossed candy to excited children as they proceeded through the parade route.

“Olds is looking for volunteers, message them on Facebook,” Meyers announced as the Old’s firetruck drove by.

Crawfordsville fire department represented as a couple of their fire trucks made their way through Wayland and members of the Collier family tossed candy and pens to parade-goers.

Little Me & Company sprayed hot parade-watchers with water guns as they drove by in a gold cart announcing their impending opening next year.

Longtime community participant, Randy Morrow was all smiles as he rode in a red convertible through the parade, Tuesday.

“Your 2023 Grand Marshal Randy Morrow,” Meyer announced as a red convertible drove past. “He is very deserving. Thank you so much for all you do. You’ve done so much. Thank you, we appreciate you very much.”

Shortly behind Morrow, Meyers announced drivers, years, and models of antique cars, trucks, and tractors made their way through.

“Oh man, look at this Ford truck,” Meyers said as the Blue Dog chugged along. “F100, Wow, guys, the Blue Dog! I really like that truck!”

“How tall are you?” Meyer asked Uncle Sam on stilts. “10 feet? Probably closer to 12 feet with your arms raised.”

Children’s giggles and gasps could be heard as the local Shriner chapters passed by in their silly backward vehicles, dropped a dummy from the back of one of their cars, and they popped a wheelie in another.

Despite the hot sun, the crowd did not dissipate throughout the long parade, instead, families and friends chatted, sought out shade, and enjoyed every moment as the children gathered candy and celebrated the Fourth of July in Wayland.

Comments: AnnaMarie.Ward@southeastiowaunion.com