Our Maine Street's Aroostook Issue 29 : Summer 2016 | Page 38

LIMESTONE: An Invitation to Celebrate Independence Day by Limestone Chamber of Commerce Almost 75 years ago, Limestone put together its first 4th of July Parade and began a community-wide tradition of celebrating Independence Day. Local historians remember the first few parades as being mostly a horse show and marching band presentations. But as the years went by, various organizations got involved and participation in the parade increased. There are recollections of organizations such as the Civics Grange, the 4-H Club, the American Legion, and the Rotary Extension being present. Today, the parade still occurs on the 4th of July (starting at 2 P.M.), runs down Main Street, and is made up of nearly 100 entries. The parade has definitely evolved over the years and has since become a highly anticipated regional event, but it’s no longer the one-and-only event … certainly not the finale! tradition: a recitation of the Declaration of Independence followed by a patriotic sing-a-long. Local not-for-profits often hold fundraisers at this time including a chicken BBQ (Fire Department), a pancake breakfast (United Methodist Men), and the Annual Strawberry Shortcake Festival (Maine Preceptor Tau Sorority). You will NOT go hungry during this festival! One of the highlights of the celebration is the Annual Party at the Park (previously called the Street Dance). Held the evening of July 3rd, Limestone comes alive as music fills the air and food booths and a beer garden take over the Alfred E. Michaud Memorial Park. Community members, alumni, family and friends all look forward to this fun event throughout the year - and why not, when there’s plenty of food, beverages, music and laughter available for young and old alike! And when the Party at the Park is over, it is officially the 4th of July and the “party” keeps going, with various events being held downtown. After the parade, townsfolk head once again to the Alfred E. Michaud Memorial Park for a town-wide celebration including music, food vendors, games provided by the Chamber of Commerce with help from the Recreation Department, or they simply sit back and relax … and wait for the fireworks! Since that day, years ago, when the first Independence Day Parade was held, the town has continued to expand the events to allow families and friends to gather and celebrate their independence through a six-day celebration. Events such as an antique tractor pull, a golf tournament, an interfaith church service, various activities geared toward children (Teddy Bear Picnic, Scavenger Hunt, etc.), and a pet show have all become staples that make up Limestone’s 4th of July celebration! An addition this year is the renewal of an old There’s one more thing that Limestone does 36 SUMMER 2016