The City of Lake Charles is making plans for the annual Red White Blue & You Celebration. As part of the celebration, participants and spectators are invited to join in the fun for the parade, concerts and fireworks.

On Friday, July 4th at 6 p.m., the parade will roll from Mill Street heading south on Ryan Street toward Lock Park/7th Street. Anyone who would like to join in the parade is invited to decorate their floats, vehicles, golf carts, bicycles, marching units, etc. Denise Fasske, event manager said “This route is the perfect distance for kids to participate by decorating their bikes and wagons and filing in line.” Spectators are encouraged to line the streets for beads and candy.

Follow the parade to front lawn of the Lake Charles Civic Center for a patriotic program beginning at 7:15 p.m. with the sounds of Paul Gonsoulin & John Guidroz. The Lake Charles Community Band will also take the stage featuring a salute to the U.S. Armed Forces and a sing-a-long with the Louisiana Choral Foundation and friends. There will be face painting, balloon clowns and food vendors. Audience members are encouraged to bring their blankets or lawn chairs and wave their complimentary flags. If inclement weather prevails, the program will be moved into the Civic Center Coliseum. The fireworks extravaganza will begin at 9:15 p.m. Tune into Fun Radio 92.9 FM or Gator 99 for the soundtrack simulcast.

Red White Blue & You has been voted one of the “Top 20 Events” among 11 states for the month of July by the Southeast Tourism Society which promotes travel to and within the Southeastern part of the United States. For more information and parade entry forms call 337-491-9159 or www.cityoflakecharles.com.