The Fourth of July parade organizers have begun planning this year’s parade festivities. The annual parade will be held Wednesday, July 4, at 11 a.m. The theme is “What Does Red, White & Blue Mean to You?”

The traditional parade route begins at the Rhinelander Police Station on Frederick Street, runs south on Brown Street and finishes up heading north on Courtney Street to Rives Street. To honor their many years of service to the Rhinelander community, the 2018 parade marshals are Bob Heck and Richard Johns.

A new performance group is slated to join the current units of interest. The Genesis Drum and Bugle Corps from Austin, Texas, will join performers like the Rhinelander High School Band, Janesville Fife & Drum and many more.

“We are pleased to announce that the Genesis Drum and Bugle Corps from Austin, Texas will be joining us in Rhinelander on the fourth,” said parade coordinator Dale Schlieve. “In addition to their performance in the parade, the 150-plus member band will perform on the Trig’s green space immediately following the parade.”

Area businesses, families, schools, groups and non-profits are encouraged to participate in the parade. Antique cars, new or sharp cars and trucks are needed to lead sponsored units. Awards will be given to the following parade unit categories: Non-Profit, Business, Marching and General. Applications can be picked up at the Rhinelander Area Chamber of Commerce.

The Rhinelander Lions Kiddie Parade will kick off at 10 a.m. prior to the main parade. For questions regarding the kiddie parade contact Tim Gengler at 715-369-1912.

To donate to the parade, fireworks or have questions about the parade, contact parade coordinator Dale Schlieve at 715-369-1814.