Happy 4th of July!

The 4th in the Park Cities

11x14 watercolor by Liana Yarckin

I hope everyone is enjoying all of the 4th of July celebrations and festivities.  I have several photos of 4th of July parades from different towns over the years since we had kids and guess what is always present in these photos?  The big, red fire truck!  Every time when I hear the sirens, I get the camera ready.  

In this painting, I wanted to capture the masses of people lining the streets in the neighborhood parade waving and cheering at the parade participants.  This parade goes through the residential streets of Highland Park and ends at Gore Park in University Park where there is a huge celebration with all kinds of tents, food and music.  And every year, it is hotter than hot.  However, the heat does not keep the crowds from finding a shady spot on the tree lined streets of live oaks and pink crepe myrtles to watch this annual celebration.  

Families and friends are together on blankets and chairs with donuts and coffee waiting for the parade to start hours before.  The parade is made up of local businesses and residents.  Sometimes neighbors get together and create a group float with kids shooting water guns and throwing candy to the kids on the street.  Or the kids decorate their bikes and scooters in the spirit of the 4th of July and ride in a group.  Ever since my kids were little I would dress them up in red, white and blue and tell them to wave and say,"Happy 4th" as the parade would come by so treats would be thrown their way.   It's just good old fashion fun.

Hope you are having a Happy 4th of July!  

Please tell me about your favorite 4th memories.  Check back on my facebook page, I have one more 4th of July painting I am working on to hopefully post soon. 

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