Planning is well underway for Shepherdstown’s Independence Day parade and community picnic. Both events will be held on Saturday, July 4.

Groups and organizations are being recruited now to participate in the parade. If you would like to participate or want additional information, contact Peter Smith at 304-876-1139 or pvsmith@frontiernet.net.

The parade will be held starting at 11 a.m. on German Street downtown. The picnic will be held right afterwards, from 12 to 3 p.m., in the pavilion at Morgan’s Gove Park just south of town.

Everyone is welcome at both events and admission will be free.

The parade and picnic are organized annually by the Rotary Club of Shepherdstown. The goal is to provide a wholesome, family-oriented Fourth of July celebration for the town.

The picnic will include a water slide and other activities for children and there will be live music in the pavilion. The Rotary Club will be selling hamburgers, hot dogs, chips, ice cream and non-alcoholic beverages. All proceeds from those sales will be used to help cover event costs.

Full details will be announced later.