NEONOW FILE PHOTO
Butte Park was the place to be on Friday as Hermiston celebrated Independence Day with a day-long city-sponsored party.
People began gravitating to the park early in the afternoon and were treated to live music, games, vendors, a car show, and a pool party at the adjacent Hermiston Family Aquatic Center. The day was capped off with a 20-minute fireworks show that included a grand finale, unlike a year ago when a computer glitch caused the show to end with a whimper instead of a bang.
The weather cooperated throughout the day with temperatures reaching the 90s, giving the crowd ample reason to head to the nearest vendor for a cold drink. The Jim Basnight Band entertained the crowd during the afternoon and the Shades took the stage in the evening.
Keith Ramsey returned this year as both Stretch – the stilt-walking Uncle Sam – and his magician persona later in the evening. Big Top the Clown strolled around the park entertaining the kids, and a watermelon-smashing contest was held during the evening.
For a visual recap of Friday’s Fourth of July festivities, check out Northeast Oregon Now’s Photo Gallery.
