We still have a couple of hours before the fireworks kick-off... but the fourth of July festivities started early this morning in a west end neighborhood.

 The Calder Place Neighborhood hosted its annual Fourth of July parade.

 Ashley Gaston reports why neighbors say it's so important to celebrate the 4th of July holiday.

 It's been a tradition for several years... the residents in the Calder's Place Neighborhood marching to the beat of our national anthem.

 "It's something everyone needs to come see," said Tom Mannes.

 Tom Mannes and his family came to watch his daughter, grand children and wife in the parade.

 This is something they'll remember all their life and it's a chance to show how appreciative we are to live in a great nation," said Mannes.

 There were children, parents and pets decked out in their Fourth of July wear.  They have top- hats, festive umbrellas and red, white and blue balloons.

 "Today I thin k it's so important we thank our veterans, all of the men and women who are serving us actively right now, hopefully some are home enjoying this holiday with their families, but if they're not we just want them to know how much we appreciate them," said Mayor Becky Ames.

 Mayor Becky aims joined the parade patrons as she walked through the neighborhood with her husband waving and saying happy Fourth of July.

 "It's just fun, the kids, the dogs...I mean everything it's a real fun way to start off the fourth of July," said Mayor Ames.

 A great way to start off the day, even when it was getting a little hot and steamy.

 "We're hot and we're sweating but we're celebrating the fourth in the best way we know how," said Mannes.

The best way tom manes and his family know how...after the parade they'll BBQ and mingle. sharing memories with family and neighborhood friends.