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Updated 07/04/2012 06:59 PM

Norwood holds 77th annual fireman's parade

People celebrate the Fourth of July in many different ways. But a favorite for all ages is the parades. Well, it's no different in the North Country, where more than 5,000 people from all around gathered for the fireman's parade in Norwood. As our Cara Thomas found out, some longtime residents say they've come to the parade every year since they were little and watched it come full circle.

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NORWOOD, N.Y. -- Everyone has a favorite part of a Fourth of July Parade. Some love the antique fire trucks, the colorful floats and others like the big band tunes.

"I really like the music. It makes me all energetic and I just feel like I want to get up and dance," said eight-year-old Tyler from Potsdam.

Others have a more personal tie to the event.

Norfolk resident Nancy Plumb said, "I think it all boils down to tradition. Our parents did it, our parents were here, we have been here, my children have always been here."

Mary Marino from Colton said, "I come for the day that it is. For our service men and women, fighting and dying to give us this day."

Beginning in 1935, the Village of Norwood has celebrated Independence Day through their very own parade, but over the years, the parade began to lack community excitement. About six years ago, long time residents in Norwood were ready bring it back up a notch, back to the way it was when they were kids.

Parade Chairman Bob Haggett said, "The whole day on July 4th in Norwood was a lot of high school bands, a lot of marching units, fire departments and people got talking, aw it would be nice to have the parade return the way it used to be."

And one man followed that request. Bob Haggett knocked on doors and encouraged local business to be part of the event, making the parade what it is today: A community affair. With about 17 fire departments represented, more than 800 participants and about 5,000 spectators, Haggett says the parade can only get bigger.

He said, "It's just going to keep growing and I look forward to working on next year's. Starting tomorrow."

This year, the theme of the parade was Magical Kingdom. Next year, Haggett says the theme will be Dr. Seuss.