Independence Day in Independence - KWWL

Hundreds of people were trying to stay cool Wednesday as they celebrated America's birthday in Independence.

This town's Independence Day celebration has been named one of Des Moines Register's "10 Great Events."

For 152 years the parade has brought in hundreds of people. This year's parade's theme was "building for our future."

Some people say they have come to the parade for years, others say this is their first year here. Most people though, either from Independence or not, they just love celebrating in the town with the holiday's name and of course watching the parade.

"There is a lot of things in it. It lasts two hours. It's just fun," said Cheryl Going, Quasqueton. "Just the hometown atmosphere. It's fun and you get candy."

"Supposed to be the biggest. That's what I hear," said Chelsi Fritz, Washington.

Along with the parade the fireworks is a crowd favorite. That starts at 10:00 Wednesday night.