Edina hosted its 29th annual Fourth of July parade Friday, featuring dozens of community groups, local businesses, veterans, and youth organizations celebrating Independence Day along the traditional parade route.

The parade, organized by the Edina Community Foundation and presented by Explore Edina, showcased the city's diverse community with participants ranging from the Edina Fire Department and Hennepin County Sheriff's Office to local sports associations, marching bands, and cultural organizations. Mayor Jim Hovland rode in a vintage 1962 Cadillac El Dorado alongside Rotary Global Scholars representing the Edina Asian-American Alliance.

Veterans from all military branches and conflicts including World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and operations in Iraq and Afghanistan were honored during the parade. The Red Bull Bulls, an affiliate of the Military Vehicle Preservation Association, displayed vintage military vehicles while the Minnesota Pipes and Drums provided traditional Celtic music.

Local youth organizations prominently featured in the parade included the Edina Football Association, Basketball Association, Hockey Association, and Swim Club. The Edina Middle School and Alumni Marching Band and Lakeville North High School marching band provided musical entertainment throughout the route.

The day's festivities continued with evening events at Rosland Park, sponsored by Crown Bank, featuring food trucks, a performance by the First John Phillips Sousa Memorial Band at 8:30 p.m., and fireworks to conclude the Independence Day celebration.