News Summary
Plymouth, MI is preparing for the annual Good Morning USA Parade on Independence Day, featuring a unique celebration for Bonita Gibson’s 114th birthday. The parade kicks off at 9 a.m. downtown, starting a weekend of festivities. Bonita, a centenarian resilient through history, will join the parade with a custom banner, showcasing her vibrant spirit. Following the event, she will celebrate with family at Burger King, embodying the joy and community spirit of July 4th celebrations in America.
Plymouth, MI – The city of Plymouth is set to host a vibrant celebration this July 4th, 2025, as it welcomes the annual Good Morning USA Parade along with a unique twist—a special birthday celebration for Bonita Gibson, who will turn 114 years old on Independence Day. The parade is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. on Main Street in Downtown Plymouth, marking the start of a three-day weekend filled with festivities across the Plymouth-Canton area.
Independence Day, which falls on a Friday in 2025, commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. This pivotal document was signed by the Continental Congress, leading the 13 original colonies to declare their independence from Great Britain. The first official celebration took place in Philadelphia in 1777 during the Revolutionary War, with fireworks included in the festivities right from the beginning.
Each year, millions of Americans celebrate Independence Day with a variety of activities such as fireworks displays, parades, concerts, family gatherings, and barbecues. Since 1941, July 4th has been recognized as a federal holiday, emphasizing its significance in American history and culture.
Bonita’s Remarkable Journey
Bonita Gibson, believed to be the oldest resident in Michigan and among the oldest people in the United States, was born in 1911 in rural Missouri. Over her remarkable life, she has witnessed significant historical events, including two world wars and the Great Depression. Bonita maintained her active lifestyle well into her golden years, driving until the age of 99 and taking her first plane ride at 100. Her resilience is evident as she has survived serious illnesses, including mumps, measles, whooping cough, and COVID-19 on two separate occasions.
At the heart of Bonita’s remarkable longevity is her simple lifestyle, which includes a fondness for eating potatoes and a commitment to abstaining from alcohol and tobacco. As she prepares to celebrate her 114th birthday, Bonita will participate in the Plymouth Fourth of July parade with a custom-made umbrella and a banner proudly declaring her age. Her family and the local community are rallying around her, excited to support her during this special event.
Parade and Celebration Details
Following the parade, Bonita plans to enjoy a birthday celebration with her family at a local Burger King. Known for her kindness and generosity, Bonita has an impressive ability to remember people’s names and birthdays, a testament to her vibrant personality. She is often recognized for her signature lipstick and trademark smile, and she takes pride in looking her best each day.
The Patch has compiled a comprehensive guide to Independence Day events not only in Plymouth but also in the surrounding areas, ensuring that residents and visitors can fully enjoy the festivities that the long weekend has to offer. As parades, fireworks, and family gatherings draw community members together, the spotlight remains on Bonita Gibson, whose extraordinary life story and lively spirit exemplify the best of the Independence Day celebration.
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Additional Resources
- Patch: Fireworks Near Me – Plymouth & Canton July 4th 2025 Events
- WXYZ: Michigan’s Oldest Woman Celebrates Independence Day Birthday
- Boston 25 News: Fourth of July 2025 Town by Town List of Fireworks Displays
- Detroit Free Press: Independence Day Coverage
- 98.5 The Sports Hub: 19 South Shore Fireworks Displays for the 4th of July
- Wikipedia: Independence Day (United States)
- Google Search: Independence Day Celebrations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Independence Day
