Independence Day Holiday Schedule: Boat And Street Parades, Fireworks

    A new tradition in Astor is expected to see explosive growth this year, as organizers are expecting the second edition of the community’s Independence Day lighted boat parade to more than double in size. To be held this coming Saturday, July 2, on the St. Johns River, the event is free to join, isn’t judged, and is just a chance to celebrate the holiday in a uniquely River Country way.
    “It’s just something I thought would be fun,” said Patti Small, who conceived the event that started last year with 19 boats. The only requirement to participate is to decorate your boat in some red, white and blue and come to the South Moon Fish Camp area north of downtown Astor by 8:30 p.m. Saturday.
    You won’t be alone.
    “I’m kind of guesstimating we will have around 40 boats,” Small said on Monday, gauging interest that has swelled this year.
    There are no awards, no pre-registration, or captains' meetings. All you need is a desire to decorate your boat in a patriotic manner and be up for the ride south through town and past the Butler Street Boat ramp.
    Oh, and you need to know the event is being billed as a family affair.
    “It is intended to be a family-friendly event,” Small said.
    Public viewing of the parade will be available along the shoreline at public boat ramps or at the Astor Bridge.

    The Independence Day holiday kicks off this Friday night, July 1, when the City of Eustis hosts its annual Hometown Celebration event. From 5-9:30 p.m., the public is invited to come to downtown Eustis for a full evening of entertainment, food, and of course, a big fireworks show that will begin at 9:30 p.m.
   The city has pulled together an evening that begins with a water ski show at 5:30 p.m., live entertainment with Johnny Wild and the Delights at 6:30 p.m., vendors and more, all leading up to the fireworks display.
   The event is free to attend, and it all takes place in Ferran Park along the shores of Lake Eustis.
   For more information, visit www.eustis.org.
   Other area community events scheduled for the fourth include:
• City of Tavares Independence Day Celebration - Monday, July 4 begins with a street parade at 5 p.m. downtown, followed by a festival event that leads up to 9 p.m. fireworks.
• City Mount Dora Independence Day - Street parade Monday, July 4, on Donnelly Avenue at 10 a.m. on Sunday, July 3, from 4-9 p.m., music and family fun at Gilbert Park downtown, fireworks at 9 p.m.