The city of Utica is getting in on the Fourth of July spirit.
It comes after a week filled with a lot of tense emotions as the police department and community was put in the national spotlight following the death of 13-year-old Nyah Mway.
The Utica teen was killed by police after they say he pointed a gun at them.
Despite the lingering emotions, people made the most of the parade on Thursday.
“We're looking forward to seeing our friends here," said Chris Hooper, a Utica resident who was at the Independence Day parade.
“We love thanking law enforcement, the firemen, anybody that's here to serve and protect soldiers. The kids love the bands and the candy," said Sally Whitaker, of Utica.
The Independence Day parade is a tradition for many families and friends.
“We've done this for many years," Whitaker said. "This is the tree that we stand in front of. We've got great nieces and nephews, sisters, nieces and nephews. I've got a sister in law come in to join us. It's our tradition. This is what we do every year."
This year’s event also included celebrating the Utica Fire Department marking their 150th anniversary.
Of course, this year’s parade comes at a rough time in the city as people are at odds, and up in arms, over Mway's death.
Emotions are raw and strong. There are many discussions happening right now about how to move forward. But for now, the hope is maybe the Fourth of July could unite the community in a positive way.
“It's needed. I mean, parades are perfect for a community to come together. And that's what Utica needs right now. We need our community to come together for a joyous occasion and heal. And the parade serves as a perfect medium for that," said Vincent Scalise, the executive director of the Utica Center for Development.
Due to the recent events, the Utica Center for Development, City of Utica, and Oneida County postponed the Fourth of July Party in the Park and fireworks.
Spectrum News 1 is told a new date will be announced in the near future.