In the summer of 2021, one of our own decided she'd organize a Fourth of July parade. Leslie Pritchard wanted it to serve two purposes. First, it would honor a dear neighbor who was going through a tough time with cancer. Second, it would bring a little bit of joy at a time when there hadn’t been much going around.

What started as a one woman effort became one of the highlights of the year for our wonderful, mighty neighborhood. With the determination that she’s known for, the blood, sweat and tears of a handful of creatives, as well as the support of a cadre of friends who bought into her singular vision, Leslie willed the parade to life. Dozens of people participated pulling flamboyant floats, riding their bikes, walking their dogs. The full smiles and raucous laughter of the revelers left little doubt that the inaugural Cedars Fourth of July Parade was a resounding success.

After a hiatus, Leslie thought we should do it again in 2024. A planning committee of neighbors was formed and they took off running. The little parade that could was once again a fun-filled celebration of the Fourth of July and the Cedars, this slice of Dallas we love and call home.