Red, White and Bison: Putnam County Town Celebrates Fourth of July

BUFFALO, W.Va. (WOWK) – The Fourth of July brings out good old-fashioned patriotism and celebrations across the country, and local communities have been hosting parades, hot dog eating contests, barbecues and more throughout the tri-state area.

Buffalo, in Putnam County, is one of the cities that got caught up in the Independence Day spirit. The city’s annual Independence Day parade brought together several members of the community, including firefighters, marching bands, churches and more.

“The firefighters used to use it. Then in 1987, they stopped. We didn’t have it that year and everyone was like, ‘Oh my God.’ So we got a little group together and we implemented it in 1988,” says Barbara Reed, the program’s manager.

The parade has been around for decades and is meant to bring members of the community together. And, as with many parades, there are always surprises for the community.

“Lollipops, Slim Jims, fruit roll-ups, we had it all. It’s exciting, this is my second time doing it. The first time it was just dog treats and my brother wasn’t with me…now my brother is with me and we’re selling candy,” says Caiden Carpenter.

This is Caiden’s second year selling treats as a vendor at the event. Vendors only have to register for $10 to participate in the event.

The fun didn’t stop at the parade. This afternoon, food trucks, vendors and artisans fanned out near Buffalo High School for more celebrations. The city’s fireworks show is set for 10 p.m. Thursday.