Bristol celebrations continue after parade despite the rain

BRISTOL, R.I. (WLNE) — The town of Bristol’s 238th Fourth of July parade started off with heavy rain but the skies cleared up for the parade goers.

Jason DeSouza, a parade-goer said, “The rain never damages the spirit because we are true patriotic people and we are here rain or shine.”

Despite the early-morning rain, attendees said they would never miss the historic parade, no matter what the weather brings.

Joseph Dourado, the owner of Joe’s Snack Shack explained, “We would be here in the rain. Our tent and equipment are all secure. I’m just here for the celebration and to make an appearance.”

For a small business owner like Joe days like the Fourth of July mean a lot, and the sun coming out was the best part of it all.

“Days get better, just like today. We started off today with a really bad rainy day and now we are moving forward to the sun coming out,” said Dourado.

With the drier conditions, people continued to take in all the holiday had to offer for their town by celebrating at house parties and going out to local restaurants and bars.

Sophia Ferolito, named “Miss 4th of July runner-up” said, “I have all of my friends from college here and they are having the best time. This is such a small town but this is the best time to learn about it and the community is amazing.”