History of “The Best Day in UA” — the Fourth of July!
From the parade’s beginning with the Spirit of ‘76 leading the way (2024)…
…to the day’s end at the fireworks show (2018).
In 2026, Upper Arlington marks its 100th Fourth of July celebrated together as a community. In honor of this milestone, we invite you to explore these reflections on our shared history:
DISPLAY PANELS HONORING UA’S FOURTH OF JULY HISTORY - These informational panels were developed by the Upper Arlington Historical Society in 2026.
SPIRIT OF ‘76 ORAL HISTORIES - Meet the people who carry on the tradition—since 1935— of leading our Fourth of July parade. Special thanks to UAHS Broadcast Media teacher Amanda Fountain and her Spring 2025 film students for recording and editing these videos.
PARADE VIDEOS - Watch the following videos from: (1) circa 1950; (2) 1991; (3) 2020 (Pandemic Year) - Route 1 and Route 2
FOURTH OF JULYS IN A GLANCE - Review the list of known UACA leaders, themes and parade grand marshals through the years of UA’s Fourth of July.
FOURTH OF JULY PROGRAMS - For many years, Upper Arlington’s annual Fourth of July program was advertised through a printed program. Explore our collection of programs through the Upper Arlington Public Library’s UA Archives site.
UPPER ARLINGTON CIVIC ASSOCIATION - Our UACA brings community together through events like the Fourth of July and so many more!
This project was funded by a grant from funds at the Upper Arlington Community Foundation, made possible by our generous donors since 2003.