With the Fourth of July on the horizon, Claremont’s planning committee is readying for the town’s festivities. From awards ceremonies to booths for charities, there are a variety of ways for Claremont citizens to become involved in the celebration.

Do you know a Claremont teen who likes to sing? The city is currently accepting applications for solo or group acts who wish to perform the National Anthem at this year’s Fourth of July Celebration. Entrants must be able to perform either a cappella or acoustic instrumental, be in grades seven though 12, and either live in Claremont or attend a Claremont school. Applications are due by Thursday, April 11, and may be turned in either in person to the Alexander Hughes Community Center or sent to the email specialevents@ci.claremont.ca.us. Auditions will also be held at the Community Center on Tuesday, April 30 at 7 p.m.

Nominees are now being accepted for this year’s Grand Marshal, Honored Citizen, and Honored Group. Nominees must live, work, attend school, or have graduated from school in Claremont. Think about neighbors, friends, colleagues, and family members who you would like to recognize for their contributions to life in Claremont. Nominations must be sent into specialevents@ci.claremont.ca.us by Thursday, April 11.

Nonprofit organizations, families, and individuals are welcome to enter the annual Fourth of July Parade. The parade starts at 3 p.m. and follows a two-mile route that begins at Memorial Park, travels south on Indian Hill Boulevard, west on Harrison Avenue, and ends at Larkin Park at Mountain and Harrison Avenue. Applications are due to specialevents@ci.claremont.ca.us by Wednesday, May 1.

Festival booths are available to Claremont nonprofit organizations and are an excellent way to raise awareness and funding for a cause. The festival is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Memorial Park. Booth fees are between $25 and $100, depending on whether the booth is giving information, running games, or selling product. The booth applications are due to specialevents@ci.claremont.ca.us by Wednesday, May 1.

For additional information on the Fourth of July celebration, contact Human Services at (909) 399-5490 or by email at specialevents@ci.claremont.ca.us. Detailed information as well as all applications can be found on the city’s website here.