Greenbrier County, WV (WOAY) – The quaint river town of Alderson undergoes a patriotic red, white, and blue transformation this time of year.
It has earned them the title of West Virginia’s Best Fourth of July Celebration, and 10 months to pull it off as only Alderson can.
I felt the all-American spirit ahead of the 64th Grand Parade and fireworks.
“We start Friday night with a fireman’s rodeo where area fire department members come out and compete in events: bucket brigade, tug of war,” said Committee Member Briton Kirby. “(A great way) to let our first responders have a little bit of fun.”
According to Kirby, the firework display involves various-shaped lances, a tank battle, and words spelled out. At up to two hours, Alderson’s parade is one of the longest in the Mountain State.
“A kids’ fishing tournament on Saturday, that leads into the following week, starting on the third,” the committee member said. “We have bands the third, fourth, and fifth. Our ground fireworks display will be on the 4th of July, as always, one of the only ground fireworks displays in the state.”
For Kirby, the best part of Alderson’s Fourth of July is the people who annually return.
“The front of the parade will meet the back of the parade every year,” he said. “We’re very proud of the size of our parade and the people who make Alderson their home for that week.”
It’s a bonding experience.
“They bring their families,” said Kirby. ” This is a family-friendly event — and a tradition they can carry on with their family forever.”
For $5 per person, you can join Alderson’s American Pride in 2025, an all-American baking contest, river rubber duck race, among other exciting attractions.
“Not going to beat that deal anywhere,” Kirby said, adding that the celebration provides enjoyable music and more. “Inflatables, food trucks, and everybody will be able to have their little celebration right there with us.”
