Historic Ingleside Neighborhood Association holds annual 4th of July parade

Residents first began hosting the parade in the 1970s. After a two-decade hiatus, this is the fourth year of the events’ return.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — The July Fourth Historic Ingleside Neighborhood Association (HINA) brings out Middle Georgians of different backgrounds, but a shared love for the country.

Residents first began hosting the parade in the 1970s. After a two-decade hiatus, this is the fourth year of the events’ return, much to the delight of longtime resident Blair Train.

“It’s just so much fun to see the kids, the dogs, the families, it’s just the way to celebrate the fourth,” Train said. 

Families from all over brought their kids and canines out for the fun. Cody Hancock is a Sandersville resident. He says he and his family made the hour-long drive to celebrate the sacrifices made by troops for freedom, and everything else he says makes America the greatest country on earth.

“We’ve got the grills cooking chicken out back back there, some pasta salad, and stuff like that,” Hancock said. “We’re just enjoying the fourth and celebrating our independence.” 

The parade was revived in 2022 in large part due to efforts by neighborhood resident and pediatrician Dr. Edward Clark. Clark recruited Tyler Moore, then a medical student, to be a part of the festivities.

“It turned out that we had a lot in common, with the appreciation for antique tractors,” Moore said. “So, I’ve come out ever since and drove one of the Super Ms for him, and I’ve been here ever since.” 

Train says the parade combines her love for both Ingleside and America and sends a powerful message to the youth.

 “We’ve always been free,” Train said. “We fought for our freedom. We will maintain our freedom so that these children grow up knowing what freedom is.”