Old Webster Street Dance draws thousands; Mini Days parade set for July 4, planned run canceled after low signups

Commissioners at the June 24 meeting reviewed recent and upcoming district events, including a recap of the Old Webster Street Dance and planning details for Mini Days.

Commissioners said the Old Webster Street Dance was another successful event with no reported incidents. Organizers had prepared for as many as 4,000 attendees in earlier police estimates but staff said the crowd appeared closer to about 2,500. The commission noted that State Farm served as the events title sponsor and thanked volunteers and organizers who helped run the event.

Looking ahead, staff and commissioners confirmed Mini Days events for July 25, with the parade set for the morning of July 4 and fireworks that evening. About 60 floats had registered for the parade; staff described safety meetings taking place the week prior and sought a small number of parade judges.

Members also discussed a planned 4th-of-July run that the commission had promoted. Organizers received roughly 40 registrations and determined that number did not meet the break-even threshold; staff said a 100-registration minimum was needed to justify the early-road closures and logistical work. Organizers canceled the run for this year and said they would consider relaunching the event next year with more lead time and broader promotion.

Why it matters: Events draw visitors to Old Webster and affect local businesses, traffic plans and staffing requirements for public safety and public works.

What happens next: Parade and fireworks plans proceed as scheduled; staff will continue to recruit parade judges and finalize safety logistics. Organizers may try a run again next year with expanded outreach.