Once Again, Phillips Farm Family Tops Chatham Parade

CHATHAM – It’s kind of hard to tell — COVID threw a wrench into things — but for almost the past decade, the Phillips Farm Family’s elaborate floats have won the “best of” trophy in the town’s Fourth of July parade. This year was no different.

The family’s float in last Friday’s parade features a rookery, complete with a waterfall and eagle on top, trailed by giant puppets representing the four seasons and reflecting the parade theme “The Seasons of Chatham.” Colorful butterflies fluttered around the float as it made its way down Main Street.

Parade judges Lucy Bates, Jo-Ellen Erickson and Amy Tagliaferri awarded second place to Chatham Municipal Airport and third place to Mutto Construction, whose “Chatham Fog” entry highlighted the town’s summer season regular weather events.

Charlotte and Violet Skinner won Best Youth entry, while the comical Pogo Dave garnered Most Patriotic entry. Witches on the Water were deemed Funniest, with the FitzGerald Family’s giant bugs and swatters earning Best Family entry. Best Civic entry went to First Night Chatham, with Mahi Gold winning the Best Business entry.

The limited number of awards prompted the judges and parade committee to highlight several other outstanding entries with Honorable Mentions, including The Grateful Mug Cafe, the Chatham Squire and Squire Mobile, Northeast Portable Restrooms and the Magner Family.

The parade committee will present the awards to the winners at the July 22 select board meeting.