Editor’s note: You can read more about CarmelFest 2015 here.

By Joseph Knoop

A parade brings all kinds of spectacle to American Main Streets each year, including acrobats, marching bands and mascots. No parade is complete without a legion of decorated floats, though, and CarmelFest is no exception with over 90 entries.

Fitting this year’s theme of “Stars & Stripes Forever,” those looking for a unique twist on classic patriotic flair can look for Karen and David Najjar’s float featuring “the many incarnations of the American flag,” which also doubles as promotion for David’s campaign for Judge.

“One of the biggest things besides his love of American history is that he loves spreading the information, teaching about it,” Karen Najjar said.

The float features an extensive history of the American flag, including points debated by scholars as to the true origin of the original design. A live homage will also be made to the Jean Leon Gerome Ferris painting depicting Betsy Ross and sewing together her design with the accompaniment of George Washington and other members of Congress.

Carmel’s very own PorchFest celebration will be making its second appearance in the parade this year as well.

While other groups may bring extravagant decorations, PorchFest has become known for featuring one of the largest float displays, a small house designed by Justin Moffett and fellow contractors with full landscaping, as well as live musicians performing from the porch.

“I’ve been in the parade for 19 years, and I think it’s the best time I’ve ever had in it,” said Ron Carter, a member of Carmel’s City Council-At-Large. “It’s so visually interesting.”

PorchFest is a free public event featuring local music acts performing on various porches throughout the Arts District. The 2015 PorchFest will take place September 13.

The CarmelFest parade take place July 4, beginning at 10:30 a.m. at Carmel Drive and AAA Way, proceeding west along Range Line Road to Main Street, and ending at Carmel High School.