Red, White and Boom Festival combines community, patriotism

On Saturday, the Wasco Recreation and Park District's Red, White and Boom Fireworks Festival, celebrating the Fourth of July, was a day of patriotic fun and community spirit. An engaging line-up of activities and a grand finale lit up the sky.

The evening started with a flag ceremony led by Boy Scouts Troop 950, which set the tone for the event and reminded everyone of the holiday's significance. Next followed the bike parade, in which entrants adorned their bikes, trikes, strollers and golf carts with flags, colorful streamers, balloons and other festive decorations as they made their way around the park.

Car enthusiasts had their moment, too, at the 3rd Annual Car Show and Shine, which was a tribute to Danny Rueda. It featured an impressive array of vintage and modern vehicles. Juan Alvarez participated because "I love cars." Of the other vehicles, he said, "They're all beautiful."

The hands-free watermelon eating contest was a highlight for those with a competitive streak. Contestants lined up to see who could devour their slice the fastest. "I'm glad because I've tried many times and finally won," Linaya Cuella said.

The pool offered a refreshing escape from the summer heat as families enjoyed swimming and splashing around. "This was great," Darren Lewis said. "We needed this. It helped to keep us cool while we waited for the fireworks. I saw a lot of friends and family I hadn't seen in a long time. I hope they keep this up."

Numerous vendors selling a variety of food and other items added to the festive atmosphere. Lira Aguilar had the potatoes on a stick. "They're delicious. They're my favorite of the festival. It's one of the reasons I come. I come for the food."

Those who attended gave positive feedback. Adriana Rodriguez was one of them. "It's festive and perfect that they do this to get people together. The whole town comes together, and that's how close we are."

The night ended with the much-anticipated fireworks display. Priscilla Rivera was enthusiastic about the show: "It was amazing, explosive and colorful."

Lindsay Magallanes said, "I thought it was nice. I liked all the colors, how you could feel it and how long it went on."

Robert Brown said, "It was a pretty good show. I enjoyed all of it."

Destiny Alvarez shared, "It was a little longer than last year. The best part is always the ending."

Elliot Schroeder said, "It was quite an experience. It's better than any fireworks show in Kern County. The best."