Community turns out to celebrate the 4th with annual ‘Festival of the Lakes’

LEXINGTON, Tenn. — One 4th of July celebration offers a unique boat parade.

It’s the annual Festival of the Lakes in Lexington and for the second year, the ‘Boat Parade’ that is judged based off creativity, color and even costumes.

“The boat parade is something that we look forward to every year. It has become a tradition out here at Festival of the Lakes. We have lots of people that enter their boats every year and deck them out to see which one has the most patriotic boat. the winner of that get some really cool prizes at Beech Lake Marine,” said Rylee Smith, member services manager.

The Festival is a full day from cardboard boat racing, a boat parade, live music, vendors and an appearance from Miss Tennessee Carly James and Miss Lexington Savannah Madison.

“Rylee would tell you that it’s quite a bit of work. It’s a lot of preparation to have a lot of participation and to have the fireworks tonight,” said Brad Myracle, owner of Beech Lake Marine.

Smith tells us she appreciates the positive impact this occasion brings to the area.

“It really brings the whole community together and the boat parade, I for one,  is something I would really look forward to because, it’s seeing all the families and all the friends that are on these boats getting to come together and show their spirit and their love for their country,” said Smith.

Many residents say they attend this event every year and they say it’s great time to be here.

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