The 2024 Fort Mitchell Independence Day parade. Photo provided | Fort Mitchell Facebook page

Fort Mitchell calls America the land of opportunity in its parade theme this Independence Day.

“The American promise is not just opportunity, but the ability to build something that lasts, and then give back to the community that made it possible,” Mayor Jude Hehman said.

City officials said they hope to express gratitude to the community and staff who helped them organize this event.

According to Joe Christofield, Fort Mitchell Programs and Communications director, the first parade took place in 1974. They have held it every year since, except in 2020. That makes this the city’s 50th annual Independence Day Parade

The event will feature floats from Kroger, Highland Cemetery, World Market and more. As always, the event will be family friendly, and a great place for kids to get candy.

The city considers the choice for Grand Marshal a direct reflection of their ideals.

This year’s Grand Marshal is Soco’s Mexican Restaurant & Bar in Fort Mitchell. Soco’s is celebrating 40 years of business this year.

“This year, we’re honored to celebrate Soco’s Mexican Restaurant as our Grand Marshal, a family business that began with a dream,” Hehman said. “Through perseverance, Soco’s has become a cornerstone of our town for 40 years.”

The parade will kick off at 12:30 p.m. at the DCCH Center for Children and Families Fairgrounds and will follow Dixie Highway to Beechwood Road before concluding at Beechwood High School.