(Host) The flags are flying, the floats are decorated and the marching bands have all been practicing for this weekend's Fourth of July parades around the state.

In Brandon, they're getting ready for tomorrow's Independence Day parade.

As VPR's Nina Keck reports, thousands are expected at the annual event.                                                                                        

(Parade music - "You're a Grand Old Flag") 

(Keck) Brandon artist and educator Liza Meyers lists all the things she loves about the parade - like: the marching bands, the antique cars, the floats, the kids and all the people lining the streets.

(Liza Meyers) "It is so America - it is just the epitome of an American experience."

(Keck)  Meyers says Brandon goes all out to put on a good show and people appreciate that and come back year after year.  

(Liza Meyers) "It brings the community together on a special day to celebrate the things we love and to celebrate our lives."

(Keck)  Besides the parade which begins at 1:00, there will be live music, kids' games, food vendors and town wide activities - culminating with fireworks at dusk. For VPR news, I'm Nina Keck in Brandon.