By Taylor Boyd
The annual old-fashioned Fourth of July celebration at DeHart Park on Saturday, July 3 was a massive success, according to Chris Corbett.
The event started with a car cruise-in, children’s parade, and an American flag raising, and ended with the traditional July 4 fireworks display.
Corbett, who serves as the attorney for the Town of Stuart and also Patrick County fireworks coordinator, said more than 1,000 firework shells were used during the 33-minute display.
He added 24 people were needed and worked behind the scenes to pull off the massive event.
“It was a safe event. The good Lord provided wonderful weather for us, and we’re grateful for that. We thank the county, the Department of Tourism, and the town for providing the wherewithal to buy the fireworks,” he said.
Corbett said many spectators viewed the fireworks from the Lowes parking lot, Stuart Elementary School, Hutchens’ Petroleum, and the SunTrust Bank building. Many others watched from DeHart Park and other high ground areas.
The event is held annually, but like many events, last year’s celebration was cancelled due to the pandemic.
While she missed the celebration last year, Leslie Marsh, of Stuart, said she appreciated the number of people attending the event.
“Everyone’s showing their patriotism. I’m seeing so many flags and the kids have fun. That’s what small town America is,” she said.
Like Marsh, Courtney Moose, also of Stuart, said her family missed the event last year.
“We really enjoy the fireworks together, but we also love the Children’s Parade,” she said, and added that she is glad the community was able to get together and share in the special holiday, particularly with “the amazing flag raising and the Anthem.”
Carolyn and Ed Belcher, of Stuart, said the event gave them an opportunity to see a lot of people that they know while looking at vintage cars on display at the Stuart Cruise-In.
“We love old cars. We’ve got one that we bring and show,” Ed Belcher said. “We just like to walk around and see our neighbors and talk to people.”
