C.E. & H Ruritans expect to attract more than 4,000 to the festivities

Staff Report

The Crittenden, Eclipse and Holland Ruritans are preparing to kick off its 29th Fourth of July extravaganza in north Suffolk with the Ebenezer United Methodist Church on Route 17 in Crittenden.

Gathering for the annual parade will begin at 10 a.m., with opening ceremonies and music following an hour later. A float and bicycle parade will start at 11:30 a.m.

The annual raft race in Chuckatuck Creek will start at 3 p.m., with a band concert at 6:30 p.m. and fireworks at 9 p.m.

Food sales in Ebenezer’s new Family Life Center will be going on from 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., and free rides and games will be held from noon to 3 p.m.

The C.E. & H Club’s all-day event will include a free fireworks show to close the festivities. The affair is held on the grounds of the Ebenezer United Methodist Church, located at 1589 Steeple Drive. Church members and affiliates will provide baked goods and other food sales along with games and amusements for the entire family.

The Junto Woman’s Club will sell lemonade and baked goods.

The organization ill also hold a yard swing raffle to raise money for its Scholarship Fund.

The parade will venture through the villages of Crittenden and Eclipse.

Several restored antique cars and trucks, gaily decorated bicycles, golf carts, special floats, fire and emergency vehicles from Carrollton and Driver will be a part of the experience.

After the annual Raft race on Chuckatuck Creek, the band will play live music until the fireworks show at 9:15 p.m. This show, which is free and open to the public, will feature an aerial display with a value of approximately $10,000 by the internationally famous Zambelli Fireworks Company.

This show is funded by the C.E.&H. Ruritan Club, which generated the money at a special fundraiser held at the home of Leonard and Loretta Willis. Donations also came from individuals and groups, including the Junto Woman’s Club.

Based on prior years attendance, planners are anticipating at least 4,000 fireworks spectators from throughout Hampton Roads.

Also on July 4th, Charter Communications will sponsor a Stars and Stripes Spectacular

on the banks of the Nansemond River from 4:30 to 10 p.m.

Entrance to the Constant’s Wharf Park and Marina is free and open to the public.

Fun and games for children are also available for

$5 per child. Jason Swain and Island Boy will perform. Cold beverages and snacks will be available. The fireworks display begins at 9:30 p.m.

For more information about the Stars and Stripes Spectacular, call 923-2360.