The young and young at heart can get involved Wednesday in what has become a Fourth of July tradition in Manteca — getting soaked by spray from a firehose.
It is part of the fun set for Wednesday as Manteca celebrates Independence Day.
The Sunrise Kiwanis Fourth of July parade starts at 10 a.m. at Jason Street and North Main across from Golden West School. The route heads down Main Street and turns west on Center Street where it ends at Library Park.
This year’s parade theme is “Manteca, 100 Years.”
The forecast for the day calls for a high of 91 degrees. If it gets a tad hot for you watching the parade, join in the fun as Manteca firefighter reserves bring up the rear by pulling a hose cart from hydrant to hydrant along the parade route to shoot streams of cool water skyward in the middle of the street.
The day starts with the traditional Manteca Kiwanis pancake breakfast from 7 to 11 a.m. at Angelano’s Restaurant in the Cardoza Shopping Center at North Main Street and Louise Avenue.
Breakfast consists of pancakes, ham, eggs, juice, and coffee. The cost is $7 for an adult and $4 for a child.
Manteca Kiwanis’ community endeavors include the free annual community Easter egg hunt, monthly student recognition of high school students and Valley CAPS clients as well as supporting various youth and community endeavors.
The annual aerial fireworks show will begin at 9:45 p.m. with mortars launched from the wastewater treatment plant.
Those wishing front row seats can view them from the Big League Dreams sports complex, 1077 Milo Candini Drive. Admission is $2. Gates open at 7 p.m.
Recommended viewing locations that are free include Bella Vista Park, 1580 Bella Terra Drive; Dutra Estates Park, 2701 Ancestry Street; Dutra Estates Mini Park, 1523 Hearthsong Drive’ Dutra Southeast Park, 1850 Sparrowhawk Street; Kevin O’Neill Park, 1281 Laurel Drive; and Roberts Estates Park, 1740 Rail Street.
To contact Dennis Wyatt, email dwyatt@mantecabulletin.com