Waterbury’s NQID hails ‘Peace, Love, and the 4th of July’ on June 24

May 11, 2023  |  By Dan McKibben

On Saturday, June 24, the streets and parks of Waterbury will be filled with celebrations for Not Quite Independence Day, often just called NQID. 

Waterbury’s is traditionally the first local celebration of Independence Day.  This event has gone on longer than many can remember, and since 2012 it has been coordinated by the Waterbury Rotary Club.  The Rotary’s NQID team is ramping up the planning and wants to share the following information.

This year the NQID planning team is engaging more members of our community for assistance with NQID. This outreach started with a contest to come up with a theme for this year’s celebration.  The winning theme of  “Peace, Love, and the 4th of July” was submitted by Lisa Sholk. Next came community involvement in designing a logo.  The winning design was created by Parker Robinson, a 6th grader at Crossett Brook Middle School.

We’re also welcoming community involvement of volunteers to help with the day.  If you’re interested in volunteering or learning more about Waterbury Rotary, please send a note to Dan McKibben on the Rotary website homepage,  waterburyvtrotary.org. 

On June 24, the day’s events kick off at 4 p.m. with the Green Mountain Mile running race, followed by one of the best parades in the state. All local groups are encouraged to participate in the parade, provided they are focused on safety and follow the rules. Many parade entrants find a way to reflect the theme in their float design and we’re looking forward to seeing the creative interpretations of this year’s theme. More information about entering the parade and the rules are online at:  waterburyvtrotary.org/page/nqid  

Another highlight of the day is the concert and community festival at Rusty Parker Memorial Park.  We’re excited to welcome back the band The Hit Men to play at this year’s NQID.  In addition to music, there will be kids’ activities and vendors offering a variety of food, beverages and other items. 

The final highlight of the day is the fireworks show, launching from the field behind the State Office Complex. Come to enjoy the full day and then wrap it up with a spectacular light show at dusk.

Find the NQID schedule and details online at waterburyvtrotary.org/page/nqid.  

Dan McKibben is a Waterbury Rotary members and NQID organizer.