A big crowd gathered yesterday in downtown Ellijay to celebrate the Fourth of July as politicians, marine corps, city officials, and more participated in the annual fourth of July parade. The parade was organized by the Ellijay Downtown Development Authority and the Better Hometown Program and included floats decorated by some of the local businesses.

Awards were also given out at the parade for those who had the best parade floats. Appalachian Animal Hospital won First Place; National Title Pawn, Second Place and Gilmer Nursing Home came in Third Place, with a Youth Award also going to Homeward Bound.

Afterwards a concert and party were held after the parade followed by fireworks provided by the City of Ellijay.

For pictures of the parade please view the slideshow below.