Happy 4th of July
Red, white and kabluey
Fireworks displays are planned in Taos and over Eagle Nest Lake. Photo by Rick Romancito
Parades and fireworks planned all over Taos County
By Tempo staff
Wednesday, July 2, 2008 7:10 AM MDT
The uniquely American holiday of Independence Day might not be reveled so much these days as a celebration of the Colonies’ adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, which solidified separation from Great Britain. But it is still about patriotism, community and family. The holiday’s modern connection with fireworks, parades, carnivals, barbecues, picnics and baseball games is alive and well, and the Enchanted Circle is no exception.
In what has become a local tradition, the town of Taos and the Taos Volunteer Department will provide a free public display of $20,000 worth of fireworks from 9:15-10 p.m. high above the Taos Rodeo Grounds. The crackles and booms, and sparkling streams and bursts can be seen from many vantage points all over town.
Over in Angel Fire and Eagle Nest, the “Gateway to the Enchanted Circle,” an all-day celebration is planned starting with the Eagle Nest Volunteer Firemen’s Annual Barbecue and Ambulance Dessert Sale from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. at the Senior Center, North Tomboy Drive, in Eagle Nest. At 1 p.m. expect people and floats to start lining up for the “Big Parade,” which commences at 2 p.m. down 3rd Street. Anyone can participate and no preregistration is required. Then, at dusk, approximately 9:30 p.m., the sky show billed as the “Highest Fireworks in New Mexico” will light up the night over Eagle Nest Lake. Trust us, the sight of colorful bursts over the lake is truly inspiring.
For more information about Angel Fire and Eagle Nest festivities, call (575) 377-2420 or (575) 377-2486.
Nearby in Red River, the mountain town with the Old West appeal, dozens of floats and human arms tossing candy will commemorate its 67th annual Fourth of July Parade, affectionately regarded as the “largest parade in Northern New Mexico.” The parade route runs along Main Street. It will begin at 10 a.m. and ends at noon.
Just down the road along NM 150 in Arroyo Seco, a community-wide facelift has been under way in anticipation of another highly attended and wildly colorful classic American parade. Starting at noon, Grand Marshal Abe García will usher in another installment of one of the most eccentric and incomparable parades in one of Northern New Mexico’s most quaint of communities. Because it has been growing so much over the years, that claim by Red River may get some competition.
There will be open parking for the Arroyo Seco parade behind Holy Trinity Parish. Food, drink and souvenirs will be available. And, as always, please don’t drink and drive.
