As summer approaches, so does the annual Turlock Independence Day Parade, Car Show and Street Fair in Downtown Turlock.

From 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 4, countless area residents will head to Downtown Turlock and celebrate what has become a community tradition.

This year’s theme is Country Pride. Whether that means “western” or “stars-and-stripes” is up to the participants. Vendors and other entrants are encouraged to interpret the theme to their choosing.

This year is much the same as other years, only now the celebration has condensed to encompass all of Downtown Turlock to better focus the event. There will be anywhere from 40 to 60 vendors all along the central streets of Turlock, as well as a stage with music.

The celebration will last until 5 p.m., only ending sooner if the weather becomes uncomfortably warm. However, the fact that the event is condensed will help beat some of the heat, due to the extra shade in central park.

The schedule of events that day is as follows: Registration will open at 8 a.m., with the Patriotic Parade to follow at 10 a.m. The street fair and car show will last from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and at sunset, the Red, White and BOOM Fireworks Extravaganza will start in the Fairgrounds.

For more information on how to be a vendor or register for the parade or car show, visit the following page: www.turlockchamber.com/events/Independence-Day-Celebration-126/details.