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Houlton’s 40th annual Midnight Madness street fair and July 4 mile-long parade are projected to be bigger than ever this summer.
The two-day summer celebration that starts at 4 p.m. July 3 in historic Market Square typically doubles Houlton’s population for two days as many people return home for this iconic summer gathering.
This year is especially significant as the celebration coincides with the country’s semiquincentennial. This year’s theme, Hats Off to America, was selected to honor the nation’s 250th birthday, said organizer Jane Torres, executive director of the Greater Houlton Chamber of Commerce.
“We really should celebrate. We have a lot to talk about,” Torres said.
Midnight Madness started as a shopping experience, with shops remaining open until midnight to draw business downtown. Over the years it has evolved into a fun-packed street fair that draws more than 8,000 revelers to the live bands, street dancing, kids games, vendors, artisans, myriad food options and decadent treats like maple cotton candy. A fireworks grand finale tops it off.
To add to the theme, a group will read the U.S. Constitution out loud during the festivities, Torres said.
There will be three music sessions this year opening with The Dustpans from 4 to 7 p.m., McGill’s Community Band, 7 to 8 p.m. and Marionette Party Band from 8 to 10:30 p.m.
At 6 p.m. the Miracle Mile Road Race kicks off and fireworks at Riverfront Park start at 9:30 p.m.
“As it gets closer I am beginning to look forward to it,” Torres said. “I think it’s going to be big. As long as the rain holds off and the weather is perfect it will be great.”
To round out the holiday events, organizers expect this year’s famous July 4 parade will be bigger than ever because of the nation’s 250th anniversary.
And while waiting for the parade to begin, people can visit the artisan craft fair and community market in Monument Park.
The July 4 parade begins at 10 a.m. with floats lining up in St. Mary’s Catholic Church parking lot on Military Street across from County Yankee.
“This year’s parade tips its hat to the people, history and spirit that make America extraordinary,” Torres said.
In keeping with the theme, organizers offer suggested floats that include Hats Through History; America the Beautiful; Stars, Stripes, Sparkle; and Freedom through the Ages.
Parade rules include no political floats and no throwing candy from floats for safety, although people can walk the route and hand out candy, Torres said.
On July 2, as a precursor to Midnight Madness, the town holds its annual Strawberry Shortcake Sale with its beloved handmade whipped cream. People can order strawberry shortcake in advance for $7 each or visit the booth on Market Square between 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. or until they sell out.
