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NEW CANAAN, Conn. Sun, fun, family and fireworks are all in the plans for Monday as New Canaan continues a unique holiday tradition. As it has for the past three decades, the town will celebrate Independence Day with its 31st annual Family Fourth holiday party in Waveny Park.
More than 5,000 people are expected to attend the towns biggest summer event, which is a giant family picnic as well as a celebration of American independence.
Robert Mallozzi III, who has chaired the Family Fourth organizing committee for 11 years, said its one of the events hes most proud to take part in because it brings families out to enjoy a nice day. He called it a signature New Canaan event, comparing it to marching in the Memorial Day Parade and singing carols at Gods Acre on Christmas Eve. Its morphed into one of the towns most recognized and treasured events, said Mallozzi, who also serves on the Board of Selectmen. Im a pretty patriotic guy, and this really embodies the image we have about New Canaan.
The event is driven by volunteers, and no town money is used. We work the whole day to set it up, Mallozzi said. Its a labor of love. Weve had the same core group of guys [setting it up] for the last 20 years.
The early portion of the evening will feature music from the New Canaan Town Band, childrens inflatable bounce houses, the magic of the Great Sirico and Glow Necklaces. The big show concludes with a fireworks show, set to start at about 9:15 p.m.
As in previous years, families are allowed to bring their own food to the park, but for the first time, they can also purchase food from local restaurant Garelick & Herbs, which will sell hamburgers, hot dogs, wraps, salads and other treats.
Passes for Family Fourth are $30 for town residents and $60 for non-residents. Passes can be purchased until 4:30 p.m. Friday at Town Hall and at the town recreation department in Waveny Park and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday in front of Town Hall. Dogs, alcoholic beverages, barbeque grills, personal fireworks, sparklers and candles are not permitted at Family Fourth.
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