TD Parade prances into a dazzling finale filled with Oohs and Ahhs

By Joshuah Albert & Tom Peterson

Independence Day, 2023, The Dalles, Oregon - The Dalles was abuzz with anticipation this morning, July 4, as locals geared up on W. 8th Street and prepped for the annual Fort Dalles Parade, a cherished tradition that pays tribute to the town's emergency departments. 

Adding to the excitement, was the thought of festivities culminating with a breathtaking firework show over the majestic Columbia River, providing a dazzling finale to a day filled with patriotic fervor and heartfelt appreciation.

It would not be a Parade without local heroes from the TDHS Softball Team which won the 4A Championship this year.

The Fort Dalles Parade, now in its 87th year, has become a hallmark event for the community, symbolizing unity, resilience, and unwavering support for the local emergency services.

 In the days leading up to the parade, the town has been a hive of activity, with residents, local businesses, and community organizations collaborating to ensure an unforgettable experience.

While the parade serves as a significant highlight, this year's celebration takes on an added level of excitement with the highly anticipated firework show. As the sun sets on July 4th, families and friends will gather along the banks of the Columbia River, eagerly awaiting the moment when the night sky transforms into a mesmerizing display of colors, patterns, and sparkles.

And that would not be possible without a lot of people working together - the City of The Dalles, multiple business sponsors, and a ton of local donations from individuals.

Matt Herriges of the Fort Dalles Fourth committee said they have come close to raising $50,000 needed to light the fuse on tonight’s activities.

“It promises to be a great show,” he said. “And it’s great to get to the point where we are funded.”

Herriges said the city tips in $25,000 and then it is up to the Committee to come up with the rest through sponsorships, donations and creating the Veteran banners for light polls downtown The Dalles. 

Of the $25,000 to raise, sponsors chip in a third, and the other two-thirds come from residents. Herriges said it always astounds him how much individuals are willing to give to ensure the event happens. 

When you see the sky explode tonight, know that the members of the Fort Dalles Committee made it possible. They are Herriges, Gretchen Sharp, Marty Hiser, Sally Miner, Andrew Stanek, Cody Miller, Alex Hughes, Abigail Herriges Kristi Timmons and Kasie Cook. 

The firework show over the Columbia River, set to go off around 10 p.m., has long been a beloved tradition in The Dalles, captivating spectators of all ages. The dramatic backdrop of the river, coupled with the reflection of the vibrant bursts of light, creates a magical atmosphere that truly embodies the spirit of Independence Day.

As the day’s activities come to a conclusion, locals will make their way to prime viewing spots, securing their places along the riverfront to ensure a front-row seat for the much-anticipated spectacle. Blankets will be spread, picnic baskets unpacked, and laughter will fill the air as everyone eagerly awaits the grand finale.

Eugene Horvath holds up an 8-inch mortar in 2022. The mortar will hit 800 feet in the air before exploding into thousands of intense sparks. Western Display Fireworks is in charge of the pyrotechnics with the help of Bernert Bargelines in the Port of The Dalles. Bernert lends a barge and a tug to set up the launching pad for the display in the Columbia near the Union Street Underpass.

Local authorities have meticulously planned the firework show, working closely with pyrotechnic experts to ensure a safe and awe-inspiring experience for all attendees. The display will showcase a dazzling array of fireworks, choreographed to a carefully selected musical soundtrack that will resonate with the patriotic spirit of the day.

The firework show serves as a collective celebration of the community's unity and gratitude, a moment where everyone can come together and revel in the joyous festivities. It is also a time to reflect on the incredible efforts of the local emergency departments who have tirelessly protected and served the community throughout the year.

As the Fourth of July reaches its crescendo in The Dalles, the Fort Dalles Parade and the spectacular firework show over the Columbia River stand as testaments to the community's unwavering spirit and appreciation. Together, these events bring neighbors, friends, and families closer, reinforcing the bonds that make The Dalles a truly special place to call home.

Blowing stuff up does not come easy. This crew worked for hours in 2022 preparing the barge with cannons and mortars for The Dalles Fourth of July fireworks show. Bernert Barge Lines lends use of a barge, crane, tug and staff to load the 10-inch cannons every year for the fireworks display. It cuts thousands of dollars off the cost of the show.