For the first time since 2019, Central PA 4th Fest’s Independence Day Parade returned to State College in its entirety following three years of scaled-back celebrations due to COVID-19.

Folks lined College Avenue and Penn State’s campus all the way to Medlar Field at Lubrano Park to witness dozens of patriotic organizations, floats, businesses, politicians, and more take part in the Fourth of July festivities.

Our photographers were on the scene to capture all of the enthusiasm in State College throughout the parade.

Vamos Lion Chariot pedicab services livened the crowd with fist bumps and cheers as one of the first participants in the parade.

Things you didn’t know you needed to see: a mini CATA bus.

State College Mayor Ezra Nanes made an appearance at the parade in a decked-out pickup truck. The mayor also participated in the inaugural Ironman 70.3 Pennsylvania Happy Valley triathlon just two days prior.

Children and all attendees got their fair share of candy and goodies thrown from the parade participants.

Patriotic ponies graced the parade and glided up College Avenue donning red, white, and blue decorative stars on their coats.

Organizations and businesses such as the Jaffa Calliope Clown Unit, Nittany Highland Pipe Band, Cutting Edge Tree Professionals, and twirling teams showed up and showed out to make the first Independence Day Parade in three years a memorable one.

Ike the Spike even stopped by ahead of the State College Spikes’ Fourth of July matchup with the Williamsport Crosscutters.

At the completion of the parade, the Central PA 4th Fest continued into the afternoon and evening with a roller derby, free hot dogs, live music, a BMX bike show, a firework display, and more.