Village, Borough Ready for 4th of July

The village and borough will be celebrating the nation's independence day with some of the best floats, marching bands and fireworks in the area.

The festivities begin in Ridgewood at 9 a.m. for the flag raising at the train station. Councilwoman Bernadette Walsh will give the speech. At 10 a.m. the parade through the downtown begins. The theme this year? Born in New Jersey (it's more than just Bruce).

Fire trucks, marching bands, the phenomenal floats constructed by respective school communities, and local politicians in convertibles highlight the parade. The parade is on, rain or shine.

After a bit of a point of relaxation, the streets start to close off at 5 p.m. The evening ceremony kicks off at 6:30 with a , dancers, twirlers, the Falling Angels skydivers and other acts. The fireworks finale of course closes out the show.

Cpt. Jacqueline Luthcke said the department is urging residents – particularly kids – not to sit on Maple Ave. during the day. There needs to be emergency access on the roads as well as fields, Luthcke said.

In Glen Rock, participants for the parade will find their places and begin the march at 9:30 a.m. Proceeding first from the high school, they'll head up Highland Rd., hang a left on Rock Road, hit up the downtown and end at the municipal pool.

Glen Rock's parade features some of  the county's most inventive floats. Check back to see photos of which of this year's theme (sports and celebrities).

For some libations and a good time, check out setup, which includes music from the Hecktones, $1 beer out of the truck, and a good time courtesy of the Smith family.

Borough institution The Glen Rock Inn will be handing out free burgers and dogs at 11:30 a.m. Stick around for Bloody Marys ($4) and a Sangria pint ($5).

Ridgewood's evening ceremony could be canceled depending on weather. Should it be canceled, it would be rescheduled for July 5. Wednesday's weather could feature thunderstorms, forecasts show.