It a takes village
Corrales turns out in all its eccentric glory for annual July Fourth parade
Patriotism and community spirit, combined with a healthy dose of Corrales eccentricity, were on display this week at the village’s Fourth of July parade.
A colorful mix of horses and riders, carts and carriages, vintage cars and tractors, bands and performers of all kinds entertained hundreds of spectators who lined Corrales Road for the annual Independence Day celebration.
“It gets bigger every year,” said Patty Snipes, 67, who has lived in Corrales for 18 years.
Her family, including four children and six grandchildren, returned to Corrales this week for a family reunion — and to attend the parade.
“We try to make it back around the Fourth of July because we enjoy this,” said Snipes’ daughter, Nicole Bonilla, 39, of Carrollton, Texas. “And our kids love it.”
What’s not to love? The Ballut Abyad Shriners Band got cheers and applause as they rolled by on their bandwagon, playing patriotic marches. Behind them, men in Shriners’ fezzes darted around on tiny motorcycles.
Next came dozens of Tin Lizzies
and the Model A Fords, followed by an assortment of vintage fire engines and cars of many eras and styles. About 40 members of the Corrales Tractor Club also joined the parade. Kids snapped up candy, toothbrushes and Popsicles thrown from floats.
Gus and Kathy Kefallinos wore vintage clothing suited to their restored horsedrawn carriage — a King George IV Phaeton — manufactured in England in the late 19th Century.
“We’re just characters,” said Gus Kefallinos, when asked if the couple depicted any particular historical characters.
A kazoo band made up of volunteer groups, including Friends of the Corrales Library and Sandoval County Master Gardeners, entertained the crowd with patriotic tunes.
“I’m one of those people who keep volunteering for things,” JoAnne Roake said moments before she and others struck up “You’re a Grand Old Flag” on kazoos. “That’s what I love about this town.”