I’m taking a break from garden talk this week to write about the annual Snug Harbor 4th of July parade. I am immigrant who has lived in the United States for nearly 20 years, and this quirky, come-as-you-are parade is one of my favorite annual traditions.

It’s a casual, inclusive parade, but with a lot of pizazz.

Inclusive – as in dogs welcome, too.

The floats are always creative and funny.

The neighborhood kids LOVE it.

Snug Harbor is home to several charter fishing marinas, so there were a few fishing-themed floats.

This one made me look twice.

A float with an environmental message!

Members of the “Rod n Reel Precision Drill Team.”

Another regular is the Snug Harbor synchronized swimming team.

Another funny election-themed float. I love the “we’re doomed” sign!

I will end this post with a couple more shots of happy children. We need more happy.