Arrow Rock's annual Impromptu Parade kicks off Independence Day activities

Arrow Rock's Fourth of July Impromptu Parade has been delighting townsfolk and visitors for more than 20 years, according to a news release from Friends of Arrow Rock.

The tradition continues this year when the National Historic Landmark village kicks off its July 4 festivities with a parade down Main Street at 2 p.m.

The Impromptu Parade, as the name implies, is open to anyone who wants to participate. There is very little organization and no entry fee or prizes.

All parade participants are invited to gather at the west end of Main Street (near the Old Schoolhouse) at 1:45 p.m., and at 2 p.m. they will march to the east end, led by the Arrow Rock Fire Department and the DAR color guard carrying a hand-crocheted American flag.

What follows is an array of decorated bikes, lawnmowers, costumed pets, antique cars, tractors, and the traditional kazoo band (open to anyone, kazoos provided), according to the news release.

Visitors are invited to stay in town after the parade to enjoy music on the boardwalk provided by Faith's Journey from St. Louis and/or to play a round of Outlaw Croquet and other lawn games.

For reasons unknown, croquet was banned in Arrow Rock in the 19th century and the law was never overturned. Law-breaking croquet players could be cited by a town official, according to the news release. Play at your own risk!

Other attractions available that day include the Arrow Rock State Historic Site Museum (open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.), a tram golf cart tour of the village (offered July 4 at 10 to 11:30 a.m. and 3 p.m.) and hiking on the Pierre a Fleche trail.

The old-fashioned holiday celebration culminates with a fireworks display at the west end of Arrow Rock's Main Street at 9:15 p.m. Bring lawn chairs.