2026 Independence Day Celebration in Downtown Ellijay

July 9th, 2026 in Downtown Ellijay, Explore the Ellijays

The Gilmer Chamber hosted the 2026 Independence Day Celebration on Saturday, July 4, bringing residents, visitors, local businesses, and community organizations together in Downtown Ellijay for a day filled with patriotic celebration.

Downtown Decorating Contest

The festivities began with the Independence Day Decorating Contest, which encouraged local businesses to show their patriotic spirit through creative red, white, and blue displays. Community members and visitors were invited to pick up a map and schedule of events at the Downtown Welcome Center, explore the participating displays throughout downtown and shop local businesses, and return to the Welcome Center to vote for their favorite entry.

Congratulations to Ellijay River House for winning Best Business Display!

First Annual Pie Eating Contest

One of the day’s highlights was the Apple Pie Eating Contest, where contestants gathered for a fun and lighthearted competition that celebrated a classic American favorite. The contest brought plenty of excitement, cheers, and laughter from the crowd. Congratulations to Garrett Martin, our 2026 Pie Eating Champion, and special shoutout to Ella, named Crowd Favorite!

Festival

Later in the day, the Independence Day Festival brought additional energy to Broad Street with local vendors, food, activities, and family-friendly fun. Guests were encouraged to shop local, visit downtown businesses, and enjoy the festive atmosphere leading up to the evening parade.

“America Through the Decades” Parade

This year’s parade featured the theme “America Through the Decades,” encouraging participants to celebrate American history, culture, and community spirit through creative, family-friendly entries. Parade participants showcased decorated floats, classic vehicles, local organizations, businesses, and plenty of red, white, and blue as they made their way through downtown.

Serving as this year’s Grand Marshal was Ellijay native and former NFL player John Davis. A proud Gilmer County representative, Davis played college football at Georgia Tech before continuing his career in the National Football League with the Buffalo Bills.

This year’s parade entries embraced the theme with creativity and patriotic spirit. Awards were presented to the top parade entries, including:

  • Best in Parade: Republican Party of Gilmer County
  • Best Use of Theme: Ronny Dale (Individual)
  • Most Patriotic: Ellijay Lions Club

A huge thank you to Dave Garner of The Sports Pig (WPGY) for keeping the parade rolling as our MC, and to John Davis and The Sports Pig team for helping bring the excitement to our community!

view more parade photos

The Gilmer Chamber extends a special thank-you to North Georgia Smoke Shop, the presenting sponsor of the 2026 Independence Day Celebration, for helping make this community event possible. Their support contributed to a memorable holiday experience for both residents and visitors.

The Chamber would also like to thank the City of Ellijay, Ellijay Police Department, parade participants, local businesses, and everyone who helped coordinate and support this year’s celebration.

Presenting Sponsor: