Embracing ‘Vermont Weather,’ Rotary announces NQID theme

March 19, 2025  |  By Waterbury Roundabout 

Parade-goers celebrate in the rain during last year’s NQID. File photo by Gordon Miller

Waterbury Rotary has announced the theme of “Vermont Weather” for this year's Not Quite Independence Day celebration now being planned for Saturday, June 28. 

NQID will celebrate the rollercoaster of “joys and challenges that come from the ever-changing weather in our beloved state,” according to the club’s announcement. 

“After two years of rain on NQID, we are hoping that honoring the weather gods will prevent rain on our favorite parade,” said Dan McKibben, a lead organizer for the annual event. “The weather is an essential aspect of being in Vermont, and this theme allows us to celebrate the beauty and resilience that comes from living with it.”

The just-ahead of July 4th celebration for the past two years has drawn rainy weather that dampened some enthusiasm for the parade and block party. Fireworks displays got juggled to the day after to take advantage of clearer, drier skies as well. 

The NQID celebration will feature a parade, live music, food vendors, beer tent, and a variety of activities, closing with the annual fireworks display from the field near the State Office Complex. Parade entries are encouraged to embrace the theme by creating floats and costumes that embody elements of our local weather and seasons, McKibben said.

"We look forward to seeing how creatively our community will interpret the theme," he said. “Whether it's sunshine, rain, snow, or mud season, we Vermonters know how to make the best of what nature throws at us.”

Event organizers are updating the Rotary Club’s website with details for vendors, parade participants and general rules. Closer to the event, look for details on the Green Mountain Mile footrace that precedes the parade as well. Look for more information in the weeks to come at waterburyvtrotary.org/page/nqid and on the Rotary’s social media.