There was a little something for everyone this year as spectators from all over the globe joined in the festivities of the 233rd Bristol Fourth of July Parade, run this year by Chairman Michele Martins.

The heat did nothing to deter from the overall excitement as the parade—the largest yet, with 26 bands, 16 floats, and four military, militia, veteran and civic divisions--commenced at 10:30 am on the corner of Chestnut and Hope Street. For many spectators, though, the day started much, much earlier.

Keith Maloney, a resident of Bristol, has perfected his routine over the fourteen years he and his family have been in attendance.

“I get up at 4:30 am, secure my spot near the Herreshoff Marine Museum with my beach towels and blankets, then go back home to bed,” Maloney said. By the time he heads back down, everything is just as he left it, and he’s ready to celebrate with his daughter and grandchildren.

Like Maloney, Cranston resident Peg Januario Harris also finds the fun in well-established traditions.

“It’s a big family event. I grew up in Bristol, my father and his brothers were named Chief Marshals for the 200th parade. It’s my brother’s birthday. It’s just great to be with everyone,” she said.

Though it may be the longest-running parade in the nation, this year’s parade offered a mix of old and new to keep everyone in the audience entertained. From first-time appearances by the Patriots Cheerleaders and “The Voice” Season 12 contestant Troy Ramey to old favorites by Mickey Mouse and Santa Claus, it was impossible to be bored.

“If the parade doesn’t put a smile on your face, you’re in the wrong place,” said JP McGuire of Dartmouth.

Part of the fun for many was the interaction between the spectators and marchers. One segment of the route even included a Judge’s Couch, where the ‘judges’ broadcasted words of humor and encouragement to parade participants as motivation to power through the sweltering temperatures.

Some of the loudest rounds of applause, however, were reserved for the countless military personnel in attendance. All up and down the parade route, attendees stopped to shake hands with members of the army, navy and air force; offered their thanks to veterans; and honored those whose lives were lost fighting for our country’s freedom.

Bristol resident Marianne Lawless, who’s husband is a retired Navy commander, looks forward to this aspect of the parade most.

“When he moved, my husband loved how patriotic the town was. Bristol is a nice town every day of the year, but this is something special,” she said.

Maureen and Bill, visiting Bristol from Hong Kong, couldn’t agree more.

“It’s a very American experience,” Maureen said. “Nowhere else do you see the Shriners, politicians, the marching bands. It’s incredible.”

Though the parade always aspires to create a patriotic atmosphere from its performances, the safety of the participants remained as a top priority. Volunteers were seen running alongside the marchers, ready at a moment’s notice with water bottles. Emergency members responded immediately to any instances of dehydration, and Bristol police officers could be seen throughout the route, ensuring peace for everyone involved.

Ultimately, the friendliness, patriotism and community-like feel are what brings many people back to Bristol every Fourth of July.

“Everything about Bristol has been a happy surprise,” said New York City resident Judy Davis.

Though this year’s celebration may have come to a close, the red, white and blue stripe down Hope and High Streets will continue to serve as just a small reminder of the larger-than-life festivities of this iconic, historic event.