East Brady PA, Parades
Where have all the Parades gone
A lot of small towns have given up having parades and such, due to the lack of participation from the community. The little town of East Brady, Pennsylvania is NOT one of these. In fact the whole community seems to come out to watch along with that of nearby communities. It’s amazing to see the hundreds of watchers gather along the street to view as the parade passes by.
The parade begins on the corner of Water Street and Route 68 and ends at the school grounds where a Community fair is set up. If you happen to be traveling on Route 68 during this time, you will have to stop and wait until the Parade has finished because there is no other way around.. The route is only about 10 city blocks long, and the ones beginning the parade have plenty of time to get back and watch the rest of the parade.
Best place to sit? In front of the Pub
The Fire House has several vehicles all polished for the parade, one of which makes it’s way first, clearing the path for the rest of the followers. The high school bands from the surrounding areas are involved as well as the Homecoming Queens, riding in some fancy cars. Even some of the local politicians who are running for office will make their way into the parade. There are plenty of classic cars to view for those who are interested.
Almost all of the participants in the parade have candy they throw out to the kids watching. The local scouting troops have several groups that are in the parade as well. This particular parade was for the “River fest’, though there are several more throughout the year. Some bring their prized boats to be viewed in this parade with people riding in the boat itself throwing candy to the waiting masses.
The best place to sit is for adults, who might like to have a beer or two while watching, is right in front of the Pub. This seems to be the one time that it is allowed to drink in public. Provided that you are well behaved this tradition can go on.
Not just a Parade!
After a couple hours when all the items on ‘Parade’ have finished, the people gather their chairs and begin the hike to the school/fair grounds. The end of the parade is marked by a local police officer driving in his car with the lights on following all of the procession.
Because you will be following the parade the walk will be slow, so children and the elderly will have no problem in keeping up.
Once you reach the fair grounds you will find a lot of items for viewing, with tents set up for crafts that are for sale. If you feel like it, you might even get a tattoo! Tents are set up for those trying to earn a few dollars, there are even ‘garage sale’ items. There are souvenirs to purchase on even the tightest of budgets.
There are rides for the kids, even bouncy castles and such. The food that is available to purchase, is such that you will not go away hungry!
There is a stand where you can purchase ‘Real Lemon’ Lemonade that is just about as tasty as any you will ever have. Cotton Candy, roasted Almonds, candy coated nuts and all the elephant ears you can eat.
If you feel brave, find your way to the ’Quaker Steak and Lube’ trailer, where you will find wings of all flavors. They have mild wings and wings that require you to sign a waiver they are so Hot! For being at a fair, the prices are very reasonable.
Keep visiting!
This is a total community project and one that this writer hopes they will continue throughout the years to come. There is something for everyone in the little town of East Brady Pennsylvania, when they put on a parade.
