One of the longest running and oldest July 4th parades in the state is the Grand Rapids’ Hollyhock Lane Parade. Started in 1934 as a low cost way to entertain children during the Depression, for 87 years children and adults have been following that route to celebrate the nation’s birthday. Above is a 1978 picture from the Grand Rapids Public Musuem‘s Collection of four unidentified children getting ready to march in the parade.
This year, the parade will kick off at 8:30 a.m. between Calvin and Giddings avenues on the northwest side of Grand Rapids. Keeping with tradition, there will be floats and children riding decorated bikes. There is a Hollyhock Lane Ceremony at 9 a.m. behind 847 Giddings Avenue.
