During drenching rains on Saturday, the Lehighton Downtown Initiative held its 250 USA Parade as scheduled.

Lehighton Area High School marching band, a few other marching units, several floats and a large array of first responder vehicles composed a four-division procession.

Along the route, there was a sparse turnout of spectators. Still, some spectators defied the conditions, braving the chilly rain to take in one of the year’s final events for the celebration of the nation’s 250th anniversary.

There were several periods of heavy downpours, but the marchers braved on.

Elaine Shoenberger of Lehighton, stood on a curb wearing a raincoat. Regarding attending the parade, she said, “I like to support the community. If they (the participants) can be marching in the rain, then I can be out watching them.”

The parade was led by the Lehighton Police Department, followed by a nine-member color guard of the Lehighton United Veterans Organization. The UVO members wore water repellent jackets that were opened enough to display their dress uniforms of white shirts and dark ties.

They were followed by the Lehighton Fire Department, with about 30 members in a marching unit, who wear dark dress uniforms including coats and ties. They were accompanied by six pieces of their apparatus.

The Lehighton Area High School Band put on an impressive display despite the elements. About 100 members — which included flags and cheerleaders — completed the line of march playing non-stop music from the parade’s start at Seventh and Coal Street to its finish at the Lehighton Community Grove.

The Carbon County Republican Club participated, handing out candy to the eager children who were among the spectators.

Ten fire departments had apparatus in the parade. Besides Lehighton, there was Mahoning Township, Franklin Township, East Penn Township, Parryville, Walnutport, Coaldale, Nesquehoning, New Columbus and Coaldale.

Lehighton Ambulance, Mahoning Valley Ambulance and the Carbon County Coroner’s Office had vehicles in the lineup.

The Lehighton American Legion Auxiliary members, wearing matching red, white and blue outfits, rode on a float decorated with a patriotic theme.

A mobile animal group was included, with Robin Gitch riding the route on horseback.

Several businesses had vehicles or floats.

There was a “Learn to Play” float on which young children rode that had balloons and featured a patriotic theme.

Jim Thorpe Neighborhood Bank was represented by 11 employees who formed a marching unit and handed out candy.

The Jukebox Cruisers Car Club had two vehicles showcased.

A station wagon driven by Nick Chiumento had a large blow-up patriot boy on top of the vehicle.

Derek Solt watched the parade under an umbrella with his daughter, Alivia. “It was nice,” he said of the parade, “but the weather stinks. I’m sure a lot more people would be here if not for the rain.”