It began with a simple idea for an Independence Day Parade and now organizer James Gregory Sr. is seeing his idea come to light.

The Drakes Branch Independence Day Parade and Celebration will be held July 6 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
“I came up with the idea because I noticed that there was not a lot going on as far as parades in our area,” said Gregory. “I sort of threw the idea out there on Facebook, and it generated a lot of interest and support.”
Gregory said that people suggested either Drakes Branch or Charlotte Court House as possible locations for the event. “My thoughts were since  the other three incorporated towns in the county already have parades at different times during the year that Drakes Branch should be the location for the celebration and parade,” he said.

As part of the celebration there will be vendor spaces at the town pavilion for food and crafters to set up. “We are offering vendor space at the town pavilion for $20 per 10×10 spots,” Gregory said.

According to Gregory, the proceeds from the spaces will benefit the Charlotte County Recreation Association (CCRA).

Gregory founded the CCRA based in Drakes Branch in 2001. It began as a youth basketball

league in which it still operates. “CCRA often hosts events and sports leagues, so I decided

to make it the host for this event,” Gregory explained.

The parade is planned to begin at 10 a.m. Plans are still underway for the event, and Gregory is seeking a variety of entries for the parade. “For the parade, we welcome classic cars and trucks,

show cars, old tractors, floats of all types, motorcycles, ATVs, horses, emergency vehicles

and anything interesting,” he said.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to enjoy live music and a visit from McGruff the Crime Dog. “I think this will be a great added event for the town,” said Drakes Branch Mayor Denise

Pridgen. “It’s a great thing that will allow the community to come together and do.”

For more information on the event or how to participate, Gregory can be contacted at (434) 315-

3644.