Brazil celebrates Loyalty Day with annual parade

​CLAY COUNTY- Brazil, Indiana shows its patriotic pride each year with a parade on National Avenue in celebration of Loyalty Day.

Reportedly, Loyalty Day is observed on May 1 in the United States. First observed 1921 as "Americanization Day,"  the holiday was intended to counterbalance the international celebration of Labour Day or May Day. Many people in the past perceived that day to have communist meaning.

President Dwight D. Eisenhower proclaimed May 1, 1959 the first official observance of Loyalty Day.

Northview Band Director Bob Medworth said that participation in the parade shows appreciation for freedom.

It was a cool afternoon, with scattered rain showers. Rain held off until the parade was finished.