Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
- Heber City celebrated America's 250th anniversary with a parade full of patriotic spirit on Saturday.
- Fireworks were replaced by balloon displays due to fire danger concerns.
- Historical figures made appearances throughout the parade, including a costumed King George III.
HEBER CITY — Fourth of July parades happen every year, but this year's celebration in Heber City carried extra meaning.
Communities across the country are marking America's 250th anniversary, and in Heber City, that milestone brought together families, patriotic decorations and plenty of hometown spirit.
Among those enjoying the celebration was 14-year-old Evelyn Siggard, who spent the holiday weekend at her grandparents' home along the parade route.
"I like it. All the decorations, and everyone is so happy," she said. "It's just a celebration. I love it."
Fire danger meant traditional fireworks were off-limits, but Evelyn and her siblings found another way to celebrate.
They built balloon "fireworks" and placed them in their front yard.
"We got giant balloons, and we have the giant PVC pipes, and it took forever, but then we decided to put it all over, and it's so fun," she said with a laugh.
It wasn't just kids having fun.
Historical figures made appearances throughout the parade, including Benjamin Franklin, who reminded spectators that "there was the group of five who wrote the Declaration of Independence."
The Statue of Liberty also made her way through town, sharing what she believes events like this represent.
"It's fun, and people just feel unified and connected, and this is what we need," she said.
Then came one of the parade's biggest crowd reactions.
As King George III appeared, spectators loudly booed the British monarch.
"Well, I thought it would be fun, but it's not," the costumed King George III joked. "Nobody is supporting me, and I'm getting booed, and I'm not sure I like that. But I'll tell you, they'll be back. You'll see."
It was a reminder of how strong America can be when we're all united.
"It's a good feeling. It's time. We need to quit. We need to like each other again," said Heber City resident Shauna Bennett.
Evelyn said that's what stood out to her most.
"It shows that we all care about something," she said. "We all have different interests, and we all do different things, but we all care about living in this country and celebrating that, and I think it's cool we do all this different stuff for it."
