ALAMOSA — The Young Professionals of Alamosa kicked off July 4th celebrations this year by hosting the annual Independence Day Parade. The parade began at 10:00 a.m.

Members of the American Legion, embodying the spirit of community service, led the parade, followed by Grand Marshall Alamosa Mayor Ty Coleman. The crowd along Main Street was treated to a delightful array of parade floats, each representing a unique facet of our vibrant community.

These included floats from Horning Insurance-Justin Tucker Law and their majestic Clydesdale horses, Visiting Angels, Evergreen Nursing Home, Alamosa High School, Alamosa High Reunion, GFWC Women's Club, Boys and Girls Clubs of the San Luis Valley, San Luis Valley Youth Hockey Association, Alamosa Farmers Market, and San Luis Valley Federal Bank, among others.

After the parade, everyone was encouraged to stay downtown for a laid-back post-parade celebration in collaboration with Visit Alamosa and local businesses as part of First Friday's "Through the Ages" takeover.

A vibrant mix of music from DJ Jason, a ribbon cutting at Alamosa Home, vendor booths, giveaways, and a general atmosphere of celebration were all scheduled downtown until 2:00 p.m. According to the young professionals' group, it promised to be an exciting way to support downtown, catch up with neighbors, and kick off the holiday weekend.

A great fireworks display is scheduled to begin at about 9:30 p.m. at Alamosa County Fairgrounds, 8784 Old Sanford Rd. The San Luis Valley Federal Bank sponsors the fireworks.