Andover Steps Up for An Amazing 80th Fourth of July Celebration

Thank you to all the valued volunteers

July 19, 2022 • Saved under Committees
Press release
Smoky Bear made an appearance at the Fourth of July parade this year. Photo: Doug Phelps

We’re back! Andover stepped up for another amazing Independence Day Celebration. The
weather could not have been better. Spirits were high as the town turned out to make this 80th celebration one for the record books.

Non-profits reported brisk sales of raffle tickets and refreshments. They could barely keep up. We had some of our usual vendors as well as new arrivals who were excited to join in the fun.

Leapin’ Lena made an appearance, as has been the case for every Fourth of July parade for over half a century. Photo: Doug Phelps

The parade was outstanding once again. Parade winners were as follows:

Floats
Grand Prize: East Andover Village Preschool
1st: Andover Outing Club
2nd: Byron’s Septic Service
3rd: Andover Fish and Game Club

Antique Vehicles
1st: Eric Swenson, 1933 Packard
2nd: Bill Miskoe, 1940 Buick
3rd: Ed O’Brien, 1957 Cadillac

Other Vehicles
1st: Rich Marley, 1968 VW
2nd: Larry Wilson, 1985 Monte Carlo
3rd: “Ladybug”, 1973 VW

Animals
1st: Courtney Shaw, The Outriders
2nd: Renee Wesojo, 1½ year old Brown Swiss
3rd: Sawyer Sanborn, 1 year old Hereford Holsteins

A big thank you to all who participated in the parade and to the judges who volunteered to help us out. It was also great to have so many antique vehicles this year. Smoky Bear and all the animals were a great addition. And who can forget Leapin’ Lena, which has appeared in every Fourth of July parade for well over a half century.

Our latest addition of the inflatable Obstacle Course, Basketball Game, and Bullseye Blitz were all a smashing success. Those attractions were not idle for one minute as the day went on. After all, it’s all about the kids! The origin of our Fourth of July celebration in 1942 was the Children’s Parade, which continued with gusto as well.

An inflatable Obstacle Course was a successful addition this year. Photo: Doug Phelps

Steve Smith, our Master of Ceremonies, did a fantastic job once again, and his recitation of
The Ragged Old Flag brought tears to our eyes. Jason Wood, Steve’s new MC partner, was also a wonderful addition. Kudos to both!

This year the committee splurged on an extensive fireworks display, hoping the “Oohs” and “Aahs” on Carr Field would be louder than ever. Those in attendance were blown away!

Thank you to all our valued helpers: Toby Locke for assembling the reviewing stand once again, Andover Police, Andover Fire and EMS Departments, Proctor Academy, sponsors, nonprofits, vendors, Immaculate Sound, and Tex’s Troubadours. Without their support, our celebration could not happen.


The Andover Fourth of July Committee is an all-volunteer organization of people who truly care about Andover and the traditions that make it a great place to live.