Antigo and White Lake host gala parades for Independence Day July 6, 2009 With a mix of fun and patriotism, the Fourth of July was celebrated in Antigo, Langlade County and the northwoods Saturday.
Breathtaking fireworks and parades at White Lake and Antigo marked the traditional observance of the Independence of the United States.
The parade at White Lake got started at noon and featured dozens of families carrying their banners, a project developed through the community's active historical society.
There were antique tractors, also a staple of the White Lake extravaganza, the White Lake High School's excellent marching band and a number of musicians and characters from throughout Langlade County riding on floats and in special automobiles.
When White Lake celebrates July Fourth, it is a major event. The activities start in the morning with the Possum Run, a track event that has attracted participants that even carry Olympic credentials.
Even before the noon parade got started, there was music in the lakeside pavilion and the brats and burgers were sizzling — and the beer is cold.
The day continued with roast corn, a huge selection of pies and treats and is capped with a fireworks show that drew thousands to the shores of White Lake.
Antigo held a parade and capped the evening with fireworks and a picnic at Listle Field across from the high school.
Hours before the events commenced, dozens of lawn chairs sprouted up and down Edison Street and 10th Avenue and those who filled those seats waved hundreds of flags presented by area veterans in preparation of the procession which included a mix of colorful entries.
Badgerland Classics and Customs, returning from a stint earlier in the day at White Lake, was a popular attraction as a dozen or so of its snazzy autos rolled down the street.
The Antigo Area Community Band played a selection of patriotic tunes, Ed Brandt brought his teams of Percherons and Belgian draft horses, Keith Wilson offered a refreshing spray of water from his watermelon-mobile and family from Nagel Farms, also a White Lake entry, handed out gallons of milk and string cheese.
Veterans manned with American flags led the parades in both communities and in kind, the color guards were given a standing ovation as they passed through the routes.
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