Independence Day Celebrations Mark America’s 250th Birthday in Portage

Thousands Gather in Portage for Milestone Celebration

An estimated 10,000 people flocked to Portage on Saturday to celebrate the United States’ 250th birthday with a grand parade. Mayor Austin Bonta highlighted Portage as one of the most patriotic cities in Northwest Indiana. People traveled from as far away as Whiting to join the festivities.

Mila Rayber, age 2, perched on her father Travis’ shoulders as they represented Indiana Elite Gymnastics during the parade on July 4, 2026. Mayor Bonta emphasized the importance of ensuring that future generations honor the founding principles of the nation, including the belief that rights are bestowed by God and not the government.

Bonta, whose great-grandparents immigrated from Poland and Italy, celebrated America’s welcoming spirit, stating, “You can become an American just by coming here.”

A Community United

Angelica Harnisch, of Portage, expressed pride in her father’s immigrant journey. He became a U.S. citizen after emigrating from Michoacán, Mexico 18 years ago. Her husband, Karl Harnisch, was thrilled to participate in the semiquincentennial. Karl described the event as unlike any other Fourth of July, marking it as one of the largest celebrations ever.

Janice Newcomb, who witnessed the bicentennial, remarked on Portage’s transformation over the last half-century. She and her husband, Don Newcomb, enjoyed the festivities, noting the pleasant weather and reflecting on the enduring nature of democracy.

A Day of Celebration and Reflection

The Newcombs planned to celebrate with a cookout before viewing fireworks. Joni Maxwell, riding on the Samuelson Insurance float, shared the honor of being present both for the nation’s 250th birthday and the insurance agency’s 100th year.

Commander John Keyl of the American Legion Post 26 took pride in the effort to celebrate the special day. He served as a U.S. Marine in the Gulf War.

Community member Joe Gzromek contributed by throwing candy to children, recalling the excitement he felt as a youngster. Tim Huckabay from Hobart participated with his wife and their Chihuahua, which drove a remote-controlled car.

Mike Pollak walked his two Great Danes through the noisy parade, noting the dogs’ calm amidst the festivities.

Local Participation and Historical Reflections

Kate Scholobohm promoted Hagrid’s Hope, a local cat rescue, while volunteers distributed sweets. She reflected on the significance of the nation’s 250-year history.

Derek Bood and David Barcelli, dressed as Uncle Sam, expressed the celebration’s communal spirit. Bood’s family has deep roots in Northwest Indiana, tracing back to the 1800s.

Bood and Barcelli appreciated the unity shown during Independence Day, despite national challenges.

Remarks from Community Leaders

Portage Councilman Bob Parnell, a Baptist minister, felt blessed celebrating the nation’s 250th birthday and highlighted the Declaration of Independence’s promise of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Wiggles the Chihuahua, controlled by owner Althea Huckabay, added charm to the parade.

Lenny Corso, a professor at Indiana Vocational Technical College, reflected on the longevity of governmental structures. He urged that reasonable individuals play a role in maintaining national unity, despite fragility.

Porter County Clerk Jessica Bailey highlighted the holiday as an opportunity for national unity. Valparaiso Councilman Robert Cotton, campaigning for a Democrat college, noted the testing nature of the current societal climate amid national disapproval of presidential actions.

Reported by Doug Ross for the Post-Tribune.