LABELLE -- Many local residents came out to LaBelle Downtown Revitalization Corporation’s (LDRC) Red, White, and Tunes 4th of July Celebration Fundraiser in Barron Park. The event began at 4 p.m. with a parade, vendors, pie eating contests, and live music by The Walker Experience. 

One of LaBelle’s very own City Commissioners, Julie Wilkins, joined the fun face-first as she competed in the pie eating contest. Wilkins tried her best but couldn’t eat as fast as winner Tony Weens. The youth pie eating winner was Lauren Arscott.

Many said they were there to celebrate July 4 and also to commemorate being able to gather safely after receiving their COVID-19 vaccines.

“We are so happy to get out and see everyone after such an awful year,” said Sandra Perkins, who has lived in LaBelle her entire life. “It’s so great to feel a sense of normalcy again. Just eating hotdogs and drinking cold beer with our friends, something we have definitely missed.”

Her husband agreed, “After so much stress and anxiety, it’s really great to get out and see everyone. Plus, this is the best brisket I’ve ever had.”

The brisket was from Cracker Cookin’ and Catering, a local favorite, who was serving up food throughout the Independence Day event. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention earlier this year released guidelines saying fully vaccinated U.S. residents can attend gatherings in homes or other indoor settings without wearing a mask or practicing social distancing.  

“We were a little hesitant to get our vaccines,” said another couple. “But we did it so we could come celebrate safely. This year had a great energy for sure. Everyone was so excited to get together and see each other’s faces!” 

As the sun set, people gathered along the edges of the river for the City of LaBelle’s firework display. With cheers from the crowd, the sky lit up with fantastic explosions of color.