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Parade, pancakes, and patriotism: Wayland’s Fourth of July returns
From pancakes to fireworks, Wayland’s Fourth of July promises a full day of hometown fun.
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Wayland — The city of Wayland is set to mark Independence Day with a packed schedule of patriotic activities on Friday, July 4, 2025, featuring everything from pancakes and face painting to a parade and fireworks.
The celebration begins early at the Wayland Community Center, where the annual Lions Club Pancake Breakfast will be served from 6:30 to 9:30 a.m. at 218 W. Main St. The breakfast is offered by freewill donation, with proceeds this year benefiting the purchase of a NuStep exercise machine for the Waymar Community Room. The equipment is aimed at increasing accessibility for residents with mobility or health issues.
Families can then head over to City Park for face painting on the playground from 9:15 to 10:00 a.m., hosted by the WACO Dance Team. Donations are welcome, and the fun activity is timed perfectly to wrap up just before the parade lineup.
Parade registration and lineup will take place from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. near Main and Jefferson streets. The parade itself kicks off at 10:30 a.m., rain or shine, with announcer Tim Meyer and a performance of the national anthem by Morgan Meyer. Entry categories include tractors (lining up near The Bar on Washington Street), horses (near the Wayland Mennonite Church on Pearl), floats and vehicles (along Main Street), and a designated area for children near Peoples Savings Bank.
Once the last float rolls by, locals can head to WACO High School, where the WACO basketball teams will serve lunch from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The meal includes a sandwich, sides and beverage, available for dine-in or carryout, also by freewill donation.
Children can cool off at the Wayland Splashpad, which will be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and guests can grab a drink or snack from JT’s Sips Mobile Truck, which will be stationed near Central Park.
The celebration concludes at dusk with a fireworks display at the WACO School Football Field, courtesy of the City of Wayland and the Wayland Volunteer Firefighters. In the event of rain, the show will be rescheduled for July 5.
Last year, large crowds lined the streets under sunny skies, as parade entries ranging from farm equipment to classic cars waved to spectators. Organizers expect similar turnout this year, with a strong emphasis on family-friendly fun, small-town tradition, and community support.
Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com
