146th Independence Day Parade and Celebration

With patriotic spirit and a deep sense of tradition, Marshfield is set to host its 146th Independence Day Parade and Celebration on Friday, July 4, 2025,  one of Missouri’s longest-running Fourth of July festivities.

This year’s theme, “Salute the Red, White & Blue,” reflects a renewed focus on honoring America’s past while involving new generations in its future. According to Nicholas Inman, the 2025 celebration will include time-honored favorites and a few fresh touches aimed at expanding community participation.

“Not many communities can boast a tradition this long-standing,” Inman said. “Our goal this year is to celebrate across generations—to remember those who built this tradition and to pass it on to those who will carry it forward.”

Festivities Begin Early

The celebration kicks off bright and early with the Little Miss and Mr. Firecracker Pageant at 8:00 a.m. on the west side of the square.

At 10:00 a.m. sharp, the official parade will be launched with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the corner of East Washington and Locust Streets. As the city’s signature patriotic event, the parade will feature a wide variety of entries and floats, representing everything from youth organizations and civic groups to churches and local businesses.

Serving as Parade Marshal this year is Mary Jean Eisenhower, granddaughter of President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Her presence pays tribute to the World War II generation, in recognition of the 80th anniversary of VE Day. “We don’t have any WWII veterans able to participate in the parade this year, but we wanted to honor them. Mary Jean will be riding to represent them all,” Inman explained.

This year’s program will once again include the public reading of the Declaration of Independence, a tradition Inman described as one of the most meaningful parts of the day. Ian Thompson, a 2025 graduate of Marshfield High School, will read the document—reflecting the committee’s commitment to involving younger voices in the celebration.

“We believe the future of this event lies in engaging our youth,” Inman said. “That’s why we’re including students, children’s pageants, and multigenerational performances.”

One of those new elements includes a multi-generational performance of the National Anthem, featuring families from across the community singing together. Later, local leaders including Inman, Roye Cole, Stan Whitehurst, and Stacy Atkison will take the stage to perform “God Bless America.”

Fun Continues After the Parade

Immediately following the parade, Roy Cole will lead the invocation, a role passed down from longtime community figure Don Rost, which will be a continuation of leadership and tradition.

The post-parade celebration will also include the Watermelon Eating Contest, featuring friendly competition between Marshfield High School sports teams and plenty of free slices for spectators. “It was such a hit last year,” Inman said. “What says Fourth of July more than enjoying watermelon in the sun?”

Vendors and booths organized by the Marshfield Area Chamber of Commerce will line the square, offering everything from crafts and food to games and community resources. All activities will be concentrated on the west side of the square, near the stage and the iconic telescope.

A Celebration That Keeps Growing

As one of the largest events in the county, the Marshfield Independence Day Parade has grown significantly in recent years. Inman noted that the planning committee meets nearly year-round, tweaking parade logistics and making improvements to accommodate increased turnout. “Last year we had entries spilling out onto Elm Street,” he said. “We’ve been working hard to make sure this year’s lineup is smooth and safe.”

The celebration will also feature local honorees, including Chris Parker, this year’s Marshfieldian of the Year, and Aleeya Wilson, the 2025 Cherry Blossom Princess, who will both ride in the parade.

Looking Ahead

As Marshfield prepares for the country’s 250th anniversary in 2026, Inman emphasized the importance of events like this one: “It’s more than just a parade—it’s a moment where generations come together to reflect on our freedoms, honor our history, and celebrate our community.”

Weather permitting, it’s expected to be a day full of pride, family fun, and American tradition. “If Marshfield does anything well,” Inman said, “it’s celebrating the Fourth of July.”