The Great Avon Car Parade

The Great Avon Car Parade, featuring an escort by Avon’s local police and fire departments, helped many celebrate Independence Day in Avon. Typically put on annually as a Bike Parade, the 2020 event pivoted to a Car Parade due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The July 4th community parade wound through a nearby neighborhood on its route.

“The annual Avon bike parade, now in its fifth year, is really a memorable tradition,” said Avon City Councilwoman Tammy Holtzmeier, a co-founder and organizer of the parade.

“The parade committee has done an incredible job organizing this signature community event. We are pleased to have the support from a dedicated group of volunteers as well as the City of Avon in order to put on a quality holiday celebration for our residents,” she said.

Holtzmeier added, “Children will grow up remembering the patriotic experiences that happen right in their hometown, especially this year. The Car Parade was a fun and free family event for all ages.” She added that the event was inclusive to anyone who wanted to participate.

Patriotic vehicle decorations were encouraged at this free, family fun event. Special prizes were given to the best-decorated cars.

This year’s parade committee was proud to celebrate and honor the following Avon residents at the 2020 Great Avon Car Parade:

Avon Police Officer David Layne, Rebecca Paskert, City Councilwoman Tammy Holtzmeier (top) Lisa Burdick, Colleen Goodman and Avon Fire Lt. Brett Bruehler

Parade Grand Marshal: This is always a special surprise. Several Avon healthcare and safety heroes were honored as Grand Marshal for their heroic and humble service to our community and our country, especially during this pandemic year.

Star-Spangled Banner: Sung by Avon High School student, Kaylee Martin

Prayer for Country & Community: Led by Christian Heritage Church minister, Pastor Ryan Workman

Pledge of Allegiance: Led by recent Avon HS 2020 graduate & Senior Class President, Amanda Socha

Special 100th Birthday: Avon’s own WWII Veteran Wally Pence is celebrating his 100th birthday. He was accompanied by his daughter, Janet Eby as well as escorted in nearby vehicles by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren who were thrilled to be able to celebrate with him, if even via separate vehicles.