Although it initially caused a lot of headaches, switching the date for this year's Hereford Parade from July 2 to July 10 is proving to be a good move.
Organizers say North County folks now have a chance to celebrate the Fourth of July at other places like nearby Oregon Ridge and still be in downtown Hereford the next weekend for the home-grown parade.
"I really think there is increased interest in the July 10 parade because there's not much happening elsewhere that weekend," said Leslie Pachol, president of the parade's board of directors.
The theme for the sixth annual parade is "Heroes in Uniform" and organizers urge past or present military personnel to wear their uniforms to the parade.
The events on July 10 begin at 3 p.m. with festivals at two locations - Hereford High School and York and Mt. Carmel roads. Both spots feature vendors selling food and crafts, as well as booths set up by local organizations.
This year features a Petting Zoo in the Kids' Zone, which includes inflatables, games, prizes and activities.
Registration for a free children's Bike Parade behind Hereford Volunteer Fire Company also begins at 3 p.m. The parade of decorated bicycles starts at 3:30 p.m. The first-place winners in several age groups get to ride in Hereford's fire engine during the parade.
The parade features classic and antique cars, marching bands, as well as floats assembled by local businesses and churches. It begins at 6 p.m. and goes from Graul's parking lot on Mt. Carmel Road to Hereford High School.
The grandstand at York and Mt. Carmel roads opens at 5 p.m. and prizes will be given out during a trivia contest at 5:30 p.m. Roads along the parade route will be closed at 5:30 p.m.
Once the parade concludes at Hereford High School, there will be entertainment and activities. Hereford Sports Boosters are selling food at the stadium's concession stand while people wait for fireworks that start at dusk. July 11 is rain date for the fireworks.
Parade registration remains open until the end of June, Pachol said. Organizers are still accepting donations to help with the $18,000 it costs to put on the yearly event.
The parade committee also sponsors a property decorating contest open to both residents and businesses in Hereford.
Hereford Optimists, Seventh District Recreation Council and Hereford Volunteer Fire Company are the main sponsors of the parade and fireworks.
The parade sponsors are looking for 100 families each willing to donate $50 to defray expenses. Checks made out to the Hereford Optimist Club can be mailed to Box 243, Monkton, MD 21111. Indicate "100 Families" in memo line.
To register to be in the parade or be a vendor at a festival, or for more information, go to http://www.herefordparade.org.