File photo CELEBRATING AMERICA – Area residents lined Weirton's Main Street to observe the 2025 Fourth of July parade. This year's parade will take place at 5 p.m., July 4, as part of local holiday festivities.

WEIRTON – Each year, the Weirton community comes together to celebrate Independence Day, but this year organizers are hoping to make the festivities a little more special, including the annual parade.

While set to follow the traditional route along Main Street, this year’s parade will feature some differences, as it will take place at 5 p.m. July 4.

“For only the second time in the history of Weirton, it won’t be in the morning,” Weirton Parks Executive Director Coty Shingle explained.

Following the observance of the nation’s semiquincentennial, the parade’s theme will be “America 250,” and those interested in taking part are asked to sign up no later than June 24.

Applications are being accepted for floats, mini-floats, decorated vehicles, emergency vehicles, specialty units and bands.

“We’re looking for anyone interested in taking part,” Shingle said. “We’re hoping for a great turnout for the parade.”

Floats can be no higher than 12 feet 6 inches, while mini-floats may include anything not professionally produced. Decorated vehicles may include antique cars, business representatives or special dignitaries.

Specialty units include military personnel, first responders, decorated bicycles, wagons, four-wheelers, go-carts, horses and more.

For more information, including how to obtain an application, contact Parks Programs Director Chris Krishak at 304-797-5721.

The parade will kick off a slate of celebrations in the city, which will include an evening of games, vendors, live music, a car show and more, culminating in the city’s fireworks display at approximately 10 p.m.