Community groups, schools, veterans organizations and local advocates filled the streets of Maryville on July 11 as the annual Nodaway County Fair Parade celebrated community spirit and kicked off the final day of the fair.
The parade began at 9:30 a.m. at the entrance to Northwest Missouri State University before traveling down Fourth Street. Floats highlighted a variety of causes, from honoring military veterans to promoting local community initiatives.
Parade organizer Tiffany Whipple said seeing families enjoy the event makes the months of preparation worthwhile.
"Actually my favorite part about the parade is after it's all done and you're actually going through the parade and you can see all the kids and the parents and the smiling and the waving," Whipple said. "It makes all the work worth it."
Many of this year's entries focused on the theme of unity and service. Members of the Daughters of the American Revolution displayed a lighted American flag created by a local 4-H student as part of their float honoring U.S. veterans.
"Our main goal is to honor the veterans and hopefully we can all remember where we came from because without our veterans we wouldn't have America if it wasn't for our soldiers," said Cindy Kenney, a member of the organization.
Another float represented Nodaway Says NO, a citizen-led group opposing a proposed artificial intelligence data center planned about seven miles south of Maryville. Member Nancy Zeliff said concerns about the project have brought together people from across the political spectrum.
"To me this is just a fun event to be with people of like-mindedness," Zeliff said. "One thing we have found is this is not partisan. There are individuals from all sides of the aisle ... There is no political side to this. It's quality of life and protection of our environment and our community."
Parade entries competed for awards including Best Float, Best Horse Show, Best Antique Implement, Best Antique Vehicle and Best Overall Display.
Eugene Field Elementary School Principal Shelly Green said the parade showcases what makes the community special.
"Yeah, I think it's awesome. We can celebrate our differences. That's what makes us unique," Green said. "No matter what political or what you agree with or disagree with, I like how we can all come together and be positive people together."
The parade marked the beginning of the final day of the Nodaway County Fair, bringing residents together to celebrate local organizations, community pride and shared traditions.