Each year local organizations and businesses bring floats, march, play music, carry balloons and banners, ride decorated bicycles, skate, drive vintage cars and just dress up to commemorate the nation’s birthday and to celebrate Oak Park’s rich diversity. The parade steps off promptly at 10 a.m. from Longfellow Center near Jackson Boulevard and marches north on Ridgeland Avenue to Augusta Boulevard and disperses at Whittier School. For more information, including volunteering and sponsorship opportunities, call 708.358.5407 or e-mail community@oak-park.us.