Annual Allen Parade

Wicomico County, Md– The Allen Parade marked its 39th year Friday with a strong turnout for the Independence Day tradition.

Children ran into the street to collect candy along the parade route, and many attendees said they return year after year. Some described it as a lifelong tradition.

The parade president, known as the Lion King, has been involved for two years.

“This is our annual Fourth of July parade and picnic,” he said. “We’ve been doing this for 39 years, and it’s a big celebration. It’s an opportunity to celebrate our country’s independence, for all of us to come together and really enjoy fellowship, community and a big party.”

Another longtime member said he has walked in the parade for nearly 20 years and is a familiar face to many.

Wicomico County Sheriff Mike Lewis almost missed this year’s parade because of the recent birth of his granddaughter. She was due on the Fourth of July, but arrived three weeks early.

“Here we are, 249 years, our birthday of America,” Lewis said. “You come down to the small town of Allen in the South, and this is just a beautiful place in the southern part of our county. Everyone knows everyone. But you can see the enormous crowd. It’s here. The great food has been prepared by everyone. Our Lions Club does a fabulous job with that.”

Smiles were everywhere in Allen as the community celebrated America’s birthday.