Large crowd braves the heat at Castalia Tractor Day Parade

Hundreds of tractors and a myriad of spectators, braved the 90 degree temperatures Sunday for the annual Tractor Day Parade which was held Sunday in Castalia.

The Parade, which began promptly at noon, lasted nearly an hour as John Deere, Allis Chalmers, Farmall, and many other makes and models drove down Main Street tossing out candy to the delight of young and old alike.  

The first tractor to make it’s way down the highway was the 1970 John Deere 4020, this year’s featured tractor which was driven by Mark Knutson of Ossian. The tractor is owned by Mark and his brothers, Chuck and Ron.

Along with tractors, the parade included a horse drawn wagon driven by Hall and Denise Everman which carried the Grand Marshals, Dale and Karen Green.

A water ball fight was held on Saturday and many of the fire trucks returned on Sunday to participate in the parade.

Both area Democrats and Republicans had floats in the parade as did local 4-H groups.

Following the parade, a large crowd gathered at the City Park for refreshments, rides and a pie auction. Raffle prizes were also awarded.

Those wishing to eat lunch in the park could purchase a sandwich and side dishes from the Bloomfield 4-H club. Cold drinks were also a big hit.