Return of Leetsdale's July 4 celebration welcomed by many

People in the Leetsdale area celebrated Independence Day with fireworks, inflatables and so much more at Henle Park.

July 4 festivities in the borough began around 10 a.m. with a parade that started at the corner of Village Drive and Beaver Street by the Giant Eagle and made its way to the park near the corner of Ferry and Broad streets.

Event committee chair Laura Mastrorocco said about 30 fire trucks from multiple departments and 30 other groups and floats took part.

Leetsdale police led the way and borough firefighters rounded out the ensemble.

There was live entertainment, balloon creations, a splash pad, games and other activities as the day went on.

“We had all kinds of excitement in the park,” Mastrorocco said.

There was more positive than negative feedback about the earlier start to the parade than as tradition.

Mastrorocco said the committee moved the parade to the morning instead of the afternoon due to health and safety with the heat and humidity.

A sensory-friendly zone was formed along Broad Street for those who have a tough time with sirens and other loud noises. Mastrorocco said participants had mixed responses.

“My objective was to be all-inclusive and welcome everyone to the parade,” she said.

Hundreds came out to enjoy the celebration including more children than in previous years.

The event chair said everything would not have been made possible without her fellow committee members – Hanna Boyd, Becki Dazda and Beth Carroll, as well as the help of Leetsdale’s public works, police and firefighters.

“It takes a whole lot of people, and a whole lot of effort, and a whole lot of planning to put on a day like this,” Mastrorocco said. “I’m grateful to everyone.”

Anyone who wants to get involved in next year’s planning can email leetsdalefourthofjuly@gmail.com.