BY STEVEN ANDREWS

Though the holiday may be over, the festivities are just beginning as Weare hosts its annual Patriotic Celebration from July 6 to 8.

Beginning with the amusement rides opening at 5 p.m. on Friday and ending with Sunday’s “family day,” organizers hope the weekend brings families together for all of the events.

“The celebration is much closer to July Fourth than is typical for us, so we’re hoping it will add a little more patriotism and that families will come down and enjoy the atmosphere together,” said Laura Buono, co-chairman of the Weare Fourth of July Committee, who has been a volunteer for approximately 13 years.

Saturday features the “movies themes” parade at 10 a.m., which will feature local businesses and organizations with floats. Residents are also encouraged to dress up and participate.

The parade will also have antique cars, military vehicles and the New Hampshire State Police Association pipes and drums.

“We’re hoping that families come down and enjoy the parade and stay for the rides, chicken barbecue and strawberry shortcake at the Historical Society, as well as visit the various booths that will be set up,” Buono said. “We also of course want them to stay or come back for fireworks that evening.”

There will be a shuttle bus running from Center Woods Elementary School to the town center, so residents can park their vehicles at the school. There will also be a DJ who will provide music and karaoke during the display.

One difference this year will be the way the area is layed out in Weare Center.

“Space is much tighter this year since the school is still in the construction and demolition stage, so patrons will notice that we have booths on both sides of East Road,” Buono said. “We’ll also have the portion of East Road which meets Route 114 closed for the entire day on Saturday.”

Sunday is designated “family day” and will have events aimed at all ages.

The Weare Police Department will be there to provide children’s IDs and a K-9 demonstration.

Entertainment includes free face painting, a blacksmithing demonstration from noon to 2 p.m., singer Wayne from Maine and DJ Mike Delindia.

The event wraps up when the amusement rides close at 5 p.m. on Sunday.