Warren, PA - Preparations are underway for the 77th Annual Fourth of July Parade in the city of Warren, set to begin at 11:00AM on Friday, July 4th.

Residents have already started marking their spots along the parade route with lawn chairs and tape. However, city officials are reminding the public of a local ordinance that asks chairs not be set out more than two days prior to the parade, as early placements can interfere with street cleaning and setup.
 
“We understand that people want a good spot to see the parade," stated Joe Reinke, City of Warren Department of Public Works. "However, we have an ordinance set in place for a reason. We have streets to clean, lawns to mow, and with all the rain we have been getting, there is a lot to clean up. We won't throw your chairs away, but we are asking everyone to please set your chairs out 72 hours ahead of the parade, and not before. We appreciate everyone’s enthusiasm, but we’re just asking folks to be mindful.”
 
Several roads in downtown Warren will also be blocked off ahead of the parade, and drivers are advised to plan for delays and detours.
Following the parade, the celebration continues at Betts Park, where families can enjoy live music, food trucks, and games and activities for children.
 
The festivities will carry into the weekend with Wicked Warren’s second annual Freedom 5K Run on Saturday July 5th. Proceeds from this year’s race will benefit NF2 BioSolutions, a research organization based in West Chester, PA working to find a cure for NF2, a rare genetic disorder.
 
The cause hits close to home, as a young boy in the city of Warren is currently battling complications from the condition.
 
“This year along with the 5k there will also be a kids dash," stated Drew Erlandson, Head Brewer at Wicked Warren. "We wanted to team up with the Bevevino family and help them along with research for NF2, so proceeds from the race and some sales at Wicked Warren will be going towards the cause."
 
Elliott’s mother said the support from the community has been overwhelming.
 
“People in town have been very supportive and encouraging," said Lindsey Bevevino, Elliot's mom. "So, this year we are running to benefit my son Elliot Bevevino, who has NF2, a rare genetic condition that he has had since birth. Elliot is excited about the whole thing - he will be leading the race for it for a little bit too, just look for Batman."  
 
From parades and park activities to running for a cause, Warren’s Fourth of July weekend is shaping up to be a celebration filled with community spirit and compassion.
 
For more information about Wicked Warren's Freedom 5K and Kids Dash, visit here.
 
For more information on Fourth of July festivities in Warren, visit here.