Locals enjoy another year of Pioneer Days Parade

Despite less-than-favorable weather, this Saturday morning, people from all over came out to St. Anthony to enjoy the Pioneer Days Parade.

Every fourth week of July, the town of St. Anthony puts on its annual Fremont County Pioneer Days celebration.

Mari Ann Birch, parade chairwoman said, “We celebrate the pioneers that came to our valley and settled this area. We take this time to celebrate all that they have done for us, and it’s just a good time to get together.”

The celebration was originally organized by members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, plus groups from the St. Anthony Chamber of Commerce.

This celebration gives people who came to the parade a better idea of and appreciation for the pioneers who founded and settled in the area.

Lance Bunch, a parade volunteer said, “Pioneers, I think of the church’s pioneers, but I also think of pioneers that came to America a long time ago. Pioneering is very important, and I think America is based on a lot of pioneering, so it is very patriotic.”

This event has been celebrated in the community for nearly a century.

Sara Powell, a parade volunteer driver, said, “I am a lifelong resident of St. Anthony, and I’ve been to every pioneer’s celebration my whole life.”

Powell believes this may have been the biggest turnout yet.

“I have never actually gotten to pull a float before. This year, I got to, and it was great. Listening to everybody cheer and scream in excitement was awesome. The crowd was just incredible. I swear it gets bigger every year,” said Powell.

The parade celebration wasn’t just a blast for those watching, but for those who were in it, too.

Courteney Bunch, a float volunteer said, “It was amazing seeing everybody’s faces. Seeing their smiles and seeing them light up as we waved at them was incredible.”

Lance Bunch said, “I know it’s kind of a cliche to say, but I think I understand the celebration a little bit more now.”

Just like Bunch, there are many others who understand pioneers just a bit more.

Saturday is the last day of Pioneer Days, but it doesn’t end with the parade.

Later in the day, locals and out-of-towners will have a chance to attend a rodeo held at the Fremont County Fairgrounds.

They will also be able to see the play “Guys and Dolls” performed at the South Fremont High School.