Happy Fourth of July Week, Cape Cod Style!

The Fourth of July on Cape Cod conjures lots of classic images, of simpler pleasures and simpler times. Of parades large and small - from the humongous Chatham Parade Extravaganza to the neighborhood parades that can be found in so many towns and villages across Cape Cod.

We're talking red and blue jello topped with Cool Whip, paired with hot dogs, watermelon and Red Solo cups.

There are beach parties and craft fairs, sparkling ocean and fabulous displays of fireworks ... there's something for everyone on Cape Cod in the summertime, but especially at Fourth of July.

Even though the Fourth of July lands on a Thursday this year, the fun lasts all week on the Cape. And especially throughout the long holiday weekend. The annual Harwich July Craft Fair will be going on July 5th through the 7th - Friday, Saturday and Sunday - at Brooks Park at the corner of Main Street and Oak Street.

I will be at Brooks Park Saturday morning in a tent with a gaggle of local authors, and copies of SON OF A MERMAID to sign and sell. If you happen to be on Cape Cod for the holiday week or weekend, stop by and say hi - I'd love to chat with you!

Celebrating the Fourth

My neighborhood holds its own annual Fourth of July parade, a tradition that's been going on for at least the last 11 years that we've been here. One family started it, but over the years it has grown in size, and now the entire neighborhood eagerly anticipates it, some setting out lawn chairs to watch the parade roll past their home... and really, don't blink or you'll miss the whole thing.

The parade kicked off a little after 6 p.m., led by a decorated vehicle blasting patriotic music through the open windows. The "start car" is then trailed by an assortment of bicycles, strollers, wagons, scooters... and the Red Cup Brigade. It's totally a family affair, but since it's a private neighborhood, and it's cocktail hour... well, of course we all brought our wine (or beer!) along!

The neighborhood streets were lined with spectators young and old, and many small children who merged with the parade as it rolled past their homes.

Most of the kids dressed up and decked out their vehicles for the occasion!

The Chatham parade may have the tiny Shriner cars, but we had a pink electric Barbie Jeep, decorated with red, white and blue trimmings.

(Sometimes the simplest costumes are the best...)

Some of the crowd were also dressed in festive attire, all with libations in hand to toast the parade. It was a great time to greet old friends and exchange holiday hellos throughout the neighborhood.

Sometimes it's the little things that make us the happiest. My family skipped the big parade in Chatham this year, but I wouldn't miss the neighborhood parade for anything!

What did you do to celebrate the Fourth of July?