It's 7 am and a long, long day is about to begin.

The Fourth of July Parade is the pre-eminent tradition in Fairfax City.  You will see everybody in central Fairfax out on the Parade route.  And I do mean everybody. 

Any statewide politician who wants to win votes in Fairfax will be there.  (According to his recent press release, Jim Gilmore will not be attending).

After the Parade, there are smaller events in local neighborhoods.  There's also the Town of Vienna Fourth of July celebration which lasts all afternoon.  The crowds are smaller and it's less hectic than the Parade.  I personally recommend the beer tent sponsored by the American Legion.

Then the action returns to Fairfax City in the evening for the fireworks at the High School.  Again, you can expect thousands of people to attend.  The City Band will play and fireworks begin at 9 pm. 

On a family note .... today is my mother Mary Petersen's 67th birthday.  Happy Birthday Mom!