The Speakeasy Boys are pictured here, performing for a previous year’s Fourth of July community picnic at Morgan’s Grove Park. They will once again be a featured performer at this year’s event. Courtesy photo

SHEPHERDSTOWN — The flag will once again be marched down German Street this July 4, as the Rotary Club of Shepherdstown brings back its annual Fourth of July parade and community picnic to Shepherdstown.

The return of the two-part event has been highly anticipated, after it had to be cancelled in 2020 and 2021, due to COVID-19 Pandemic safety concerns. But this year, those concerns won’t be holding the parade and picnic back from taking place. And neither will, according to Smith, the weather.

“Both events will be held rain or shine,” Smith said. “Everyone is welcome at both, and admission to both is free.”

According to Smith, the reason behind the Rotary Club of Shepherdstown’s dedication to holding the event lies in its appreciation for its community.

“The goal is to provide wholesome, family-oriented Fourth of July events that everyone can enjoy,” Smith said. “In 2007, the Shepherdstown Rotary Club initiated a Fourth of July community parade and picnic. These events are now a town tradition, and the club sponsors them annually. They are always held on the Fourth, regardless of the weekday on which the holiday occurs.”

This year, July 4 will be falling on a Monday, allowing many celebrants to enjoy an extended weekend, thanks to it being a federal holiday. Those attending this year’s parade should make sure to arrive in time to find an ideal seat, before its 11 a.m. start time. But they needn’t worry about one common concern, if they are driving into town for the event.

“Plenty of parade parking spaces will be available in the Shepherd University parking lots adjacent to downtown,” Smith said, noting his appreciation to Shepherd University for making the spaces available. “There is also plenty of room for parking at Morgan’s Grove Park.”

For those who would like to participate in the parade, whether it’s to ask a question about doing so or to register directly, Smith encourages them to contact him at 304-876-1139 or shepherdstownparades@gmail.com.

“Any area institution, organization, business or individual in good standing is welcome to join in the parade. Floats are encouraged. Antique vehicles are always welcome,” Smith said. “There is no fee to participate, but participants must register beforehand.”

Just as with the parade, picnic attendees’ level of participation is up to each individual. While attendees may go all-out, by purchasing hamburgers and hotdogs hot off of the Rotary Club of Shepherdstown’s grill, along with chips and non-alcoholic beverages, they will also be welcome to bring their own picnic lunches to eat at Morgan’s Grove Park.

Proceeds from the sales of the club’s picnic food will go toward covering a portion of the parade and picnic costs, Smith said.

“The picnic will feature live music, with two popular local bands: The Speakeasy Boys and the Gypsy Ramblers,” Smith said. “There will be lots [sic] of free children’s activities, including a waterslide, scavenger hunt, a water balloon toss, face painting and more.”

The picnic will begin at noon, immediately after the one-hour parade ends, and will continue until 3 p.m. For more information, go to “Shepherdstown 4th of July Parade and Picnic” on Facebook.