BUTTE, Mont. — We’re now just a week away from the Fourth of July, and the famous parade that comes with it has been a Mining City staple for ages. And one entrant is hopeful that her float can inspire others to restore a little bit of the luster lost from parades past.
People call Darlene Battaiola “the Decoration Lady” for always going all-out on the festive spirit any time a holiday draws near–and the Fourth is no exception.
Through her 71 years in Butte, Battaiola claims to have never missed a parade. But 2024 will be her first time in the lineup.
Battaiola argues that recent parades have been missing the originality, glamour, and heart of the floats she once watched as a child.
So, she’s getting out the cardboard, tape, and garland herself, and she’s challenging others to do the same.
“Half the time, my family goes home now, saying, ‘So, what did we go to the parade for? A bunch of trucks and a bunch of cars? Where are the floats? Where are the bands?’,” Battaiola said.
“So, I’ve decided to issue a personal challenge to the businesses and other individuals here in Butte,” Battaiola continued. “I’d like them to build a float!”
Battaiola says that her team has put nearly 50 hours and $3,000 into their float. They’re going with a “Frozen” theme for the Fourth, and with good reason:
“We’re using a winter theme, because God knows it could snow for the Fourth of July in Butte,” Battaiola said. “I thought ‘wonderland’ was a good idea for Butte, because that’s what we are.”
You’ll have to wait until the parade to see the final version of Battaiola’s float, but you don’t want to wait any longer if you still want to get in on the action, as float signups close on Thursday, June 27 at midnight.
You can still sign up until 11:59 p.m. at the Butte America Foundation website.
