Soaked in Tradition: Fourth of July Fun at Token Creek (Photos)

Dive into the wild water gun fight that is the Token Creek Fourth of July parade! See the photos and feel the splash of this unique celebration.

The Token Creek Fourth of July parade isn't your average small-town celebration; it's a full-blown water war! For years, this quirky tradition has drawn crowds armed with water guns, ready to drench anyone and everyone in sight. Think floats blasting paradegoers and crowds retaliating with equal enthusiasm. It's a spectacle you have to see (and feel) to believe!

The Biggest Little Parade in the World

They call it the "Biggest Little Parade in the World," and the name fits. What started as a small neighborhood gathering over 40 years ago has exploded into a community-wide extravaganza. Ryan Pertzborn, one of the organizers, notes it's a time to appreciate the military and the land, but let's be real, it's mostly about the water guns.

A Watery Wonderland

Temperatures soaring into the high 80s? No problem! The Token Creek parade offers the perfect solution: a refreshing soak. Attendees come prepared, sporting swimsuits and armed with everything from squirt guns to hoses. James Gould, a parade route resident, says it best: "The street is literally a river running down it by the end of the parade.”

More Than Just a Water Fight

Beyond the aquatic chaos, the parade features classic Fourth of July elements. There's candy, music, and a general sense of community spirit. WMTV’s sports anchor Mike “Jocko” Jacques even MC’ed the event, drawing folks from as far away as Ireland and Belgium! Plus, there's a Kid’s Decorated Vehicle Contest and a bucket raffle, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Why It Works

Token Creek resident Adam Palm sums it up perfectly: “everyone prepares” to get soaked. It’s an accepted, even celebrated, part of the tradition. This shared experience creates a unique bond, making the Fourth of July parade a true representation of small-town America. As attendee Zach Schoenderger put it, “Everybody coming together, celebrating together – it’s huge.” The pictures don't lie!

My Take

Honestly, this sounds like the most fun you can have on the Fourth of July. Who needs fireworks when you can have a water gun fight with the whole town? It’s quirky, it’s refreshing, and it’s undeniably memorable. Seeing photos of kids armed with water guns, adults laughing as they get drenched, and the sheer volume of water being sprayed is something else. I'm pretty sure that Sarah Elmer winning her fourth frozen t-shirt contest in a row is a sign of how special the parade is.

So, next Fourth of July, ditch the barbecue and head to Token Creek. Just remember to bring your water gun and a good sense of humor – you're gonna get wet!