Willard kicks off Independence Day with Freedom Fest

Here are scenes from the parade at Willard’s annual Freedom Fest celebration. The parade began at about noon, at which point firefighters, politicians and patriotic citizens cruised down Jackson Street through a sea of onlookers. 

The festival itself began shortly after as vendors were already set up by the time those in attendance made their way down to Jackson Street Park. 

The park was muddy but festivalgoers pushed through wet conditions and hot weather to enjoy the firework show at about 10 p.m. (Photos by Ethan Gray)