Winona Lake marked July 4th by having a parade, concert and fireworks on Saturday, July 3. Shown are Jim and Susanne Kessler’s grandchildren before they were in the parade. The grandchildren’s participation is a tradition that goes back about 20 years. From left: Whitney Dawson, Jelena Lovette, Wyatt Dawson, Josie Lovette, Claudia McCray, Cohen McCray, Kendall McCray, Adalyn Meyer, Bryden Meyer, Juliana Lovette, Jada Lovette and Kalli McCray. InkFreeNews photos by Leah Sander.

By Leah Sander
InkFreeNews

WINONA LAKE — July 4th came to Winona Lake a day early.

There were plenty of events on Saturday, July 3, for people to enjoy as they celebrated America’s birthday.

Saturday night’s fireworks show featured many types of explosions.

The town’s annual parade included horses, firetrucks and the 2021 Miss Kosciusko County Cassadi Colbert. The theme was “Past, Present and Future.”

The Kessler family won the prize for the Most Entertaining category. The entry featured nearly all of Jim and Susanne Kessler’s grandchildren decked out in attire from various decades.

The Kesslers’ daughter Janelle Meyer said the family has participated in the parade for about 20 years. The tradition started with her niece Lynae Dawson, the oldest Kessler grandchild, dressed as Betsy Ross when she was about a year old, and has evolved to including all four of the Kesslers’ daughters’ kids.

“It’s the highlight of their year,” said Meyer of the kids participating. “They like to dress up and throw candy.”

Other winners in the parade included:

Judge’s Choice: The Surrey Team

Best Theme: James and John Swain

Most Creative: Elise Swain and Beka King

As the evening turned to night, people could enjoy a variety of patriotic music, courtesy of the Wagon Wheel Symphony of the Lakes’ Salute to America concert.

Selections included everything from the National Anthem and works by John Philip Sousa to a suite from the play “Hamilton.”

The night ended with fireworks in all colors exploding over the lake.

The 2021 Miss Kosciusko County Cassadi Colbert waves during the parade.

Winona Lake Police Department Chief Joe Hawn waves during the parade.

During the Wagon Wheel Symphony of the Lakes’ Salute to America concert on Saturday, audience members were invited to stand when the theme for the branch of the Armed Forces they served in was played as part of the “Armed Forces Salute.” Here, those who served in the Navy are standing.

Members of the Wagon Wheel Symphony of the Lakes perform.

Fireworks explode above Winona Lake.