Beaver Island Independence Day: Throughout the Decades

Beaver Island Independence Day Parade has been an island tradition since the 1920s and what a celebration it has been. Every year, hundreds of islanders and visitors line up on Main Street to watch the annual celebration.

Over the years, flyovers from Island Airways have begun the official parade, often led by the Island’s AMVETS and military personnel. Then, they’re followed by the sheriffs, EMTs, firefighters, paramedics, and other first responders in a genuine, heartfelt “THANK YOU” from strangers and friends alike.

Hand-built floats drive through with streamers flying and smiles gleaming. Candy is thrown for the children. The Native American tribes perform their sacred dances. Long-time residents and honored townsfolk are given their moments in the spotlight. All while decorated in the memorable red, white, and blue.

Every year there is an underlying feeling behind the obvious cheering and celebration of the United States’ independence from Great Britain in 1776. In the early 90s, the islands’ Desert Storm troops led the parade, dressed in their desert-camouflaged combat uniforms. In 2002, the first parade post-9/11, turned out one of the biggest crowds the Island has ever seen, including an hours-long traffic jam after the fireworks show. The patriotism and sense of solidarity between islanders and visitors is still remembered fondly even twenty-plus years later. However, no matter the circumstances nor hardships, the Beaver Island Independence Day celebration is a way for everyone to join together to say, “We are here today, together, as Islanders.”