The Catonsville Fourth of July Parade Needs Your Help

Catonsville's most beloved tradition--the annual Fourth of July parade--is becoming expensive.

So expensive in fact, that parade organizers may not break even this year. Ed Cogswell, 2012 chairman for the Catonsville Celebrations Committee, said it's becoming harder to break even.

Committee member Mauren Sweeney Smith told the Catonsville Times in an article posted Tuesday that the donations fell short of expenses in 2009 and 2010.

Cogswell, who spoke to Patch on Wednesday, said he thinks that many residents don't realize how much costs have gone up in recent years. Every year on the Fourth of July, thousands of people line the parade route on Frederick Road for the parade, which has been going on for 66 years.

For example, the committee pays marching bands to participate in the parade. Many bands have increased their appearance fees because of the rising cost of gas. Last year, the committee started charging a $50 entry fee for other participants as a way to raise revenue.

The committee raises funds through selling , holding an and collecting donations along the parade route. Members also sell advertisements in the parade program. Also, in the months leading up to the parade, community organizations like the Catonsville Men's Civic Association collect donations.

The committee's insurance costs have also increased dramatically, Cogswell said. The parade event does not receive any county funds for the event.

Cogswell, who used to attend the parade as a child, has been on the committee for roughly 20 years.

Every year, the committee looks at how it can reduce costs, such as limit the bands or the fireworks, but Cogswell said they also don't want to take away from the event.

"You always worry, can we afford it next year," he said.

How can you help?

To donate to the parade, you can make a donation or buy a shirt on the website.

The committee also needs volunteers to walk the parade route accepting donations. To read more about the volunteers needed, read Patch's .