WAUKESHA, Wis.— People in Waukesha came together this Fourth of July holiday to celebrate their country and the resilience of their community.
The parade came less than eight months after six people were killed in the Waukesha Christmas parade tragedy.
Thousands of people lined the streets of downtown Monday, including the Albright family.
Katie Albright’s daughter had her foot run over during the Christmas parade. Today, her family is back to show their support.
“We are ready to come together, show our kids we are going to move on from episodes that have happened and that we can still move forward and still have a fun time together,” said Albright.
While the mood at the parade was largely joyful, the parade can also bring back difficult memories. Waukesha-based counselors from Healing Hearts were on hand at the parade in the event anyone needed support.
“I think it is OK to let people know that if they were here or involved in it, you care. It is OK to let them know that even if you don’t understand it; it is OK if they feel rattled or uncertain or nervous about something,” said Daryl Powers, Healing Hearts program director.
Despite a successful Fourth of July parade, fireworks festivities planned for Monday evening were halted in Waukesha due to the threat of severe weather.