33rd Annual Midnight Independence Day Parade in Gatlinburg, TN

July 2, 2008

This forth of July, kick off your holiday at the nation’s first parade at midnight on Friday, July 4 in Gatlinburg. Come join in the celebration of our country’s independence and pay tribute to each military branch. This year, according to Special Events Manager George Hawkins, will be the most patriotic and colorful midnight parade yet. The entire holiday weekend is full of events for the whole family. On Friday, at noon, the U.S. Navy is hosting the River Raft Regatta – an unmanned river raft race. Construct a floatable raft, such as a boat made out of matchsticks or a rubber duck, and register to compete against other floatable objects. Around 10:30 p.m. the Grand Finale of fireworks will begin. Bring your family to Gatlinburg this Forth of July and join the celebration of our Independence.