We’d venture to say that there’s not another parade anywhere like the Sweet Land of Liberty parade.

The parade features area children on non-motorized vehicles, and it seems to bring a smile to everyone’s face in attendance.

The event is organized each year by the Junior Service League, which once again deserves a collective “thank you” from the community. The parade takes months and months to plan, but it always seems to go off without a hitch.

The longtime event is simple in nature, but it brings together this community. Most importantly, it gives children a special way to celebrate Independence Day.

There’s something special about watching little kids — from 10 year olds to toddlers — waving American flags and dressed up in red, white and blue. Summertime is the perfect season for family memories and the Fourth of July is a highlight of childrens’ summers.

A lot of communities have fireworks, but few have something as special as the parade.

Speaking of fireworks, we appreciate the work by the Troup County Parks and Recreation Department, which organized Wednesday’s event at Pyne Road Park. It’s a perfect place to hold a firework show.

Many go at night for the fireworks, but gates opened at 10 a.m. as part of a long day for organizers.

Both of these events help make the Fourth of July special for LaGrange and Troup County.

We thank everyone who had a hand in putting them together.