There may not be giant colorful balloons in this photo from 1911, but it is indeed the Pittsfield Fourth of July Parade—a longstanding, beloved, and historic tradition, tracing its roots at least as far back as 1801, when an article in the Pittsfield Sun referred to how the “birth-day of our Nation…was celebrated with unusual attention.” And in 1824, the newspaper reported a “numerous and respectable procession” of veterans going through the town (Pittsfield became a city in 1891) on their way to the meeting house for a celebration.

Today the Independence Day event is known for its musical performances, deluxe floats, those bright balloons, and its welcoming, hometown feeling. This year’s theme is “Red, White, Blue and You” and the fun begins at 10 a.m., rain or shine, at the intersection of South and East/West Housatonic Streets in Pittsfield.