It’s time to pick out those red, white and blue outfits, clean the grill and get ready to celebrate the Fourth of July holiday in a big Oxford way.

The Fourth of July Children’s Parade returns this year, thanks to a collaboration between Oxford’s veteran organizations — the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign War, Disabled American Veterans and the Marine Corps League – and the Yoknapatawpha Arts Council.

The parade will kick off at 10 a.m. on the Square.

The parade will center around children and families, inviting them to adorn their bikes, wagons, and scooters in red, white, and blue to showcase their patriotic spirit.

Those taking part in the parade are asked to assemble at 9 a.m. in the City Hall parking lot.

“This parade is not just about celebrating our nation’s independence; it’s also about honoring the sacrifices of our local veterans and fostering a sense of pride and togetherness among our residents,” said American Legion member Dennis Bullard.

Entry to participate in the parade is free, and families can register online at www.oxfordarts.com. The event will also feature a special patriotic photo wall where families can capture and share their experiences.

After the sun goes down on July 4th, the community is again invited to gather for the annual fireworks show, presented by NE SPARC and sponsored by the city of Oxford, Lafayette County and the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce.

Fireworks will be shot from the back of Oxford High School and will be visible from parking lots at OHS, along Sisk Avenue, Oxford Conference Center, Oxford Commons and other surrounding areas.

Turn into WOXD at 95.5 at 9 p.m. for an accompanying patriotic music melody.