While certain hometown celebrations are integral to the fabric of a community, few Baltimore neighborhood events are as steeped in tradition as the Catonsville Fourth of July Parade.
This year marks the 60th anniversary of the big holiday march down Frederick Avenue (Catonsville?s main street), and the fitting theme for the parade, as well as the entire day?s celebration is “60 Years of Fun, Family and Fireworks.”
“A friend of mine sent a picture of the first chairs put up last week,” said parade chairman Craig Sigismondi, referring to the time-honored tradition of claiming a spot by placing a lawn chair along the route. “There was a sign that read ?Beat you all, I?m the first idiot to put my chair out!? ”
This is Sigismondi?s sixth year as chairman for the day?s events. His committee has been working with a $75,000 budget, raised by donations and sponsorships.
“It completely comes down to community and business support,” he noted. “Without either, we wouldn?t be here.”
There will be 12 marching bands, including the Baltimore Marching Ravens, the Harmony Cornets and the Catonsville Steel Drum Band. Floats, clowns and fire trucks are represented, as well as the usual turnout of politicians. Gov. Robert Ehrlich, County Executive Jim Smith and Congressman Elijah Cummings will be waving from floats.
The day is capped of with the fireworks display that begins at dusk on the grounds of Catonsville High School.
“We?re an excited group,” Sigismondi said, “and we?ve got the best fireworks in town!”
