Picnic celebration huge success

By John Walls

The Eastwood Neighborhood Association (ENA; eastwooddallas.org) in Dallas proudly announces the resounding success of its Annual Fourth of July Parade and Picnic, held on Tuesday, July 4.

More than 150 adults, kids and pets took part in the parade, showcasing their creativity and patriotic spirit as they marched through the neighborhood. The event brought together the Eastwood community for a day of fun-filled activities, delicious food and neighborly camaraderie.

The day kicked off at Dixon Branch Greenbelt Park, where participants gathered to line up for the parade. The route took them up Sylvania, west on Vinemont and up Creekmere to the park. Spectators along the route enthusiastically cheered on the parade, enjoying the vibrant displays of community pride. Heading up the parade was a police car, a sports car and a patriotically decorated ATV blasting American-themed pop tunes and a bubble machine on the roof.

“The Fourth of July Parade and Picnic has become a cherished tradition in our neighborhood, and this year’s event was truly exceptional,” said Scooter Smith, president of the Eastwood Neighborhood Association. “We have come a long way since the days of the COVID-era, ENA board-members-only motor vehicle parade, and it’s amazing to witness the resilience and creativity of our community. The carts decorated by the kids added an incredible touch to the parade, and their enthusiasm was truly contagious. We are grateful to all the participants, local businesses and volunteers who made this event a resounding success.”

Following the parade, residents gathered at the park to indulge in a scrumptious spread. The aroma of grilled hot dogs filled the air as families enjoyed the mouthwatering delights. Kids enjoyed the water-fun bounce house and sweet treats, including snow cones and lemonade, while adults mingled and connected with their Eastwood neighbors.

The event also featured an exciting awards ceremony, recognizing outstanding contributions to the parade. Prizes were awarded in categories such as “Best Thing on Wheels” and the most patriotically costumed child, adult and dog. Local businesses generously donated prizes for the winners. ENA extends its gratitude to Nothing Bundt Cakes for sponsoring the “Best Represented Wheels” prize, Happy Tails for supporting the “Best Represented Dogs” award and El Porton Specialty Coffee for recognizing the “Best Represented Adult.” Their contributions added an extra level of excitement and community engagement to the event.

John Walls, block captain chair of the ENA, reflected on the importance of community events like the Fourth of July Parade and Picnic: “These gatherings are essential in fostering unity and a sense of belonging. The joy and camaraderie shared during these celebrations create lasting memories and strengthen the bonds among neighbors. I am proud to be part of the Eastwood community, which values and supports events that bring us together.”

The all-volunteer ENA remains committed to its mission of promoting a vibrant and close-knit community. Through volunteer efforts and engaging events, ENA continues to cultivate the beauty, security and quality of life in Eastwood.