Colbert continues one of the longest running Fourth of July celebrations in Georgia

For more than 50 years, Colbert has celebrated the Fourth of July with its annual Independence Day parade. Originally called the “July Fourth Homecoming” for its debut in 1970, the parade continues on Tuesday and has become a hallmark event for Colbert, even drawing the attention of Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp who attended the celebration’s 50th anniversary in 2019.

Commemorating the parade’s 52nd year with the theme “From Sea to Shining Sea”, this event is the longest running of its kind in the Athens area.

“We are very excited to again be able to celebrate the birth of our great nation and are thankful for all the volunteers who have been able to participate,” said Colbert City Clerk Kerri-Lynn Phillips.

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The parade’s start was thanks to efforts from the Tri-Community Clubs and volunteers to create a long lasting event for the community. While many of the original Tri-Community members have now passed or moved away, their legacy lives on through the parade. Now, a whole host of organizations and volunteers come together and give their time to continue the tradition.

This year Colbert City Election Superintendent Bruce Scogin will be serving as the grand marshall, kicking off the parade at 9 a.m. at the Old Colbert Elementary School, now City Hall. Citizen of the Year Betty Lynn Collins-Boyd will also be present to help lead the festivities.

After the parade concludes, the community’s celebration is far from over. Attendees can purchase vouchers at the ticket tent to chow down on homemade barbecue from the Colbert Baptist Church immediately following the parade at the Old Colbert Firehall.  La Parilla, Chick-Fil-A, and Just Like Wimp’s Boiled Peanuts are just a sprinkling of the other food vendors that will be present at the celebration.

“There will be many vendors in attendance this year including sweet treats, great stops for foodies, and many locally handmade items as well,” said Phillips.

As a nod to the event’s roots, there is also a traditional pie baking contest and performances from local gospel singers. Other activities include bingo, bouncy houses, and pony rides.

For a complete schedule and list of nearby attractions, visit colbertgeorgia.com/July-4th-v-18.html.

This article originally appeared on Athens Banner-Herald: Colbert Fourth of July celebration one of the longest running in state