The Fourth of July parade in Danville will pack an estimated 50,000 people over a 1.2-mile stretch. That means real estate for viewing the parade will be at a premium.
With that in mind, observe the chair rules folks!
You cannot put a chair out before 6 p.m. on July 3. Any chairs out before that time will be removed.
"Chairs that are removed will be available for pick-up on Thursday, July 5, at the Town Service Center," said a town statement.
The town also wants to remind you to not block handicap accessible ramps on the street corners.
Last year, we went out and talked to parade goers about their chairs. Here are a few excerpts:
Longtime parade viewers find ways around the "no chairs before 6 p.m., July 3," rule:
Irksome to some, expected by others, the issue is one about which people often have strong opinions.
“I don’t have a problem with people setting up early,” says Stephanie Gross of Danville. “What I have a problem with is when the town sets a time that you can’t set up before and people go ahead and do it anyway — follow the rules, people!”
Melissa Parker says that “as long as you don’t leave your things unattended before 6 p.m., you can be out as early as you like.”
“If you feel like spending the time Sunday to sit downtown all afternoon you should be rewarded with great seats,” she says.
The tradition of the parade:
Jennifer French of Danville says her family has been sitting in the same coveted spot (which she won't reveal) for years and years.
“My husband sets up the night before with his best friend and my father-in-law,” she says. “Then they sit around and drink beer and people watch.”
It doesn’t matter what time the town sets, she says: “It’s a tradition, a rite of passage, to set-up, tape off and guard your spot for the parade.”
For French, the fact that the parade draws thousands of out-of-towners justifies Danville natives' efforts in securing a good spot to view it.
What are your tips and tricks for securing a good spot among the thousands who will show up for the parade? Share your tips below in the comments section.
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