Photo credits: Peter Lyons Hall
The Village of Greenwood Lake marked Independence Day with a spirited Celebrate America Parade on July 4, 2026, bringing together residents, visitors, and community organizations for one of the signature events of the village’s celebration of America’s sesquicentennial. The parade transformed the streets into a colorful display of patriotism, civic pride, and hometown tradition, reminding spectators why small-town celebrations remain at the heart of the nation’s birthday.
Representatives from every corner of the community participated in the procession. Local government officials marched alongside members of the Greenwood Lake Police Department, volunteer firefighters, and emergency medical personnel, whose presence highlighted the dedication of the first responders who serve the community throughout the year. Community service organizations, including the Elks Lodge, the Lions Club float, American Legion, Catholic Daughters of Greenwood Lake, the Gaelic Cultural Society, Project Children, local scouting organizations, The Greenwood Lake historical society, the Greenwood Lake Soccer Club, and Grace Lutheran Church. The parade also included Village Mayor Tom Howley who was joined by members of the Village Trustees, Village of Warwick Mayor Michael Newhard was joined by members of the Village Trustees as well, members of the Warwick Town Board, led by Supervisor Jesse Dwyer, and accompanied by Assemblyman Karl Brabenec. Friends of Hathorn House, and numerous other civic groups and political parties, proudly carried banners and greeted the crowds lining the parade route.
One of the day’s most memorable moments came with the appearance of the Claddagh Pipe Band from northern New Jersey. Their stirring performances of beloved American patriotic standards echoed throughout the village, filling the air with the unmistakable sound of bagpipes and drums. The band’s music added both dignity and emotion to the celebration, drawing enthusiastic applause from spectators and creating a fitting tribute to the nation’s history and the sacrifices made by generations of Americans.
Parades such as Celebrate America offer much more than entertainment. They provide communities with an opportunity to come together across generations, honoring the past while strengthening the bonds that connect neighbors today. Children eagerly collect candy tossed by participants, families gather along the sidewalks with flags in hand, and longtime residents reconnect with friends they may not have seen in months. The event also gives local organizations a chance to showcase their missions, recruit new volunteers, and remind the public of the essential services and programs they provide throughout the year.
Immediately following the parade was Greenwood Lake’s famous Bed Race event, with only two teams participating this season. After a three block sprint, Team Murphy’s took this year’s bragging rights with a chance to be remembered as the America’s Sesquicentennial Bed Race Champions!
For Greenwood Lake, the parade reflected the community’s enduring spirit. It celebrated not only the nation’s independence but also the volunteers, civic leaders, veterans, and nonprofit organizations that help make village life possible. As the procession concluded and the celebrations continued throughout the day, attendees departed with more than memories of marching bands, decorated vehicles, and waving flags. They left with a renewed appreciation for the traditions that unite the community and the shared values that continue to define America nearly 250 years after its founding.
