Several hundred people crowed the shores of the Damariscotta River to watch a brilliant fireworks display, signaling the finale for Independence Day festivities. Thunderheads drifted off after people who flocked to the coastal town to celebrate had their share of rain.
Making their annual appearance in the municipal parking lot, The School Street Band had covered their stage with a tarp, fearing wet weather damage to their sound equipment. Vendors who had set up in the back parking lot stood like lonely sentinels under a dark sky, and many people crowded out nearby taverns and enclosed venues.
During the afternoon the Steve Jones band entertained folks crowded under dripping tents at Schooner Landing while others around town remained optimistic.
Despite the gloomy afternoon weather, Boy Scout troop 213 leader Chris Roberts predicted the weather would break in time for the annual evening display. “The sky will clear and we will have fireworks,” he said.
Sure enough, less than an hour after his remark the cloud parted slightly and the rain stopped.
The School Street Band unveiled their equipment and rocked out the growing crowds. Soon enough, the people emerged from hiding and gathered together to celebrate Independence Day.
