Douglas Heritage and Honor Committee sets June 27 for Independence Day parade

DOUGLAS -- January 22, 2026, Douglas committee formally renames itself and sets June 27 for an Independence Day parade. The group, previously known as the Douglas 250th Committee, voted unanimously at its January 22 meeting to adopt the name Douglas Heritage and Honor Committee and to schedule the Independence Day parade for June 27 rather than July 4, citing concerns that the holiday itself, a Saturday in 2026, would conflict with residents' existing plans. The committee is gathering quotes for caricature artists, face painters, food trucks, and costume rentals, with one Hopkinton caricaturist at roughly $320 for two hours identified as a leading option due to a no-deposit policy. Boy Scout Troop 134 and PAC 316 are among confirmed parade participants, and antique John Deere tractors and a 1928 automobile have been informally offered. A street banner program is moving toward town approval, with a potential state-jurisdiction complication flagged for poles near Soldiers Field on Manchaug Street. The committee plans to attend the Recreation Commission meeting the following Monday to coordinate concessions and present a layout sketch for Soldiers Field.