5:00 AM-9:30 AM

Duck Ponds · 527 Armory Rd, Safford, AZ 85546

Part of Gila Valley 250

The Sons of the American Legion, American Legion Swift-Murphy Post 32, and American Legion Post 95 are teaming up for a special Independence Day celebration. They will host the annual Moe Villalba Sr. Fishing Derby at the duck ponds at the Graham County Fairgrounds on July 4th from 6 to 11 a.m. The event is free for all children and will feature prizes in multiple age categories. Children will also receive refreshments. Photo courtesy of Eastern Arizona Courier.

5:30 AM

Parade Route

Part of Gila Valley 250

The People’s Parade is a family-focused Independence Day tradition celebrating community participation in the Gila Valley 250 4th of July festivities. The parade features decorated bicycles, walking families, and informal community entries such as the Gila Valley Freedom Band. The event is intentionally non-commercial and non-political, with no organizational entries or political participation allowed. It is designed as a simple, open, and family-friendly celebration with no registration required, making it easy for children and families to participate safely and creatively. Photo Courtesy of David Bell, News Director at Double R Communications.