MACON, Ga. — The July Fourth Historic Ingleside Neighborhood Association (HINA) parade once again united Middle Georgians of all backgrounds under a shared patriotism, marking its fourth year since its revival after a 20-year hiatus.
For longtime resident Blair Train, the return of the tradition has been a joyous occasion.
“It’s just so much fun to see the kids, the dogs, the families,” Train said. “This is the way to celebrate the Fourth.”
The parade, first held in the 1970s, was brought back in 2022 thanks to the efforts of Dr. Edward Clark, a local pediatrician and neighborhood advocate. Clark enlisted then-medical student Tyler Moore to help reignite the festivities—a partnership that blossomed over a mutual love of antique tractors.
“I’ve come out ever since and drove one of the Super Ms for him,” Moore said with a laugh. “Now, it’s a tradition I wouldn’t miss.”
Families traveled from across the region to join in the celebration. Cody Hancock, a Sandersville resident, made the hour-long drive with his family to honor America’s veterans and the nation’s freedoms.
“We’ve got the grills cooking chicken out back, some pasta salad, and stuff like that,” Hancock said. “We’re just enjoying the Fourth and celebrating our independence.”
For Train, the parade is more than just a festive gathering—it’s a lesson for the next generation.
“We’ve always been free. We fought for our freedom, and we will maintain it,” she said. “These children will grow up knowing what freedom truly means.”
With music, food, and a procession of decorated floats and vintage tractors, the Ingleside neighborhood’s Fourth of July celebration proved once again that patriotism—and community—are alive and well in Middle Georgia.
