Next Wednesday is Independence Day, and the Perry Chamber of Commerce is readying themselves for an important aspect of the City’s annual Fourth of July Celebration.

The parade kicks off the festivities, and this year the Chamber is offering additional incentives for participants. Chamber Director Lynsi Pasutti says judges will select 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place entries, and the winners will receive Perry Bucks in the amount of $75, $50, and $25, respectively. Pasutti is hopeful the prizes will help enhance the overall quality of the parade, and increase the amount of participants.

“So (it’s) extra encouragement for people to have floats if they’re kind of on the fence. And as far as putting a little effort into what that float looks like, some more encouragement that way. So (we’re) looking for creativity and craftsmanship, enthusiasm (and) things like that while they’re out. (We’re) going to keep it a secret as to who the judges are, but (the prizes are) just an encouragement for people to partake in the parade and celebrate with all of us here in Perry!”

The line up will begin at 9 a.m. at the East Perry Plaza, and the parade will begin at 10. There is no cost or registration required, though Pasutti reminds people there are rules for parade participants, including: no water guns or water balloons; at least two adults must be present on each kids’ float; no jumping on or off floats, and remain seated at all times; candy is to be tossed, not thrown; and keep a safe distance between entries, but avoid large gaps.

To learn more about the parade and other festivities for Perry’s Fourth of July Celebration, listen to tomorrow’s Perry Fareway Let’s Talk Dallas County program on air and at RaccoonValleyRadio.com.