Diego Lopez, Editor
GRANTS, N.M. — From barrels of dynamite to a princess with a crown, the City of Grants turned out in full force for the 85th Annual Independence Day Parade — and the votes are in.
This year’s theme, “Celebrating Our Mining Legacy,” was chosen to honor the Cibola region, which was built by pickaxes, perseverance, and pride. Over 1,500 votes were cast across multiple judging categories, and the results reflect a community that doesn’t just show up — it shows out.
Parade Winners – 2025 1st Place – Grants High School Future Farmers of America (FFA)
Award: $500 Gift Certificate to Diamond G A float full of heart and hometown spirit, FFA’s entry beautifully blended agriculture and mining — a nod to both community roots: past, present and future.
2nd Place – New Mexico Mining Museum
Award: $300 Gift Card to El Cafecito
With thoughtful design and historical reverence, Ed Corley Ford’s float paid tribute to the very legacy the parade was built to honor.
3rd Place – Mayor Erik Garcia & Son Maverik
Award: $100 Gift Certificate to Ed Corley Ford Bringing a dose of drama and flair, Mayor Garcia and his son channeled Heath Ledger’s Joker — explosives and all — to tie in with the mining theme in a bold, tongue-incheek finale.
People’s Choice Award – Hazell Hornell, Navajo Baby Princess
Hazell Hornell stole the show — and the community’s hearts — with her radiant smile and royal presence. Voters couldn’t get enough of her charm, making her the standout crowd favorite of the entire day.
Evening Festivities and Fireworks
After the parade, Fire & Ice Park and City Hall Park welcomed more than 37 vendors, featuring everything from handmade crafts and custom tumblers to face painting, food trucks, and jumpers for the kids. Live performances by Power Drive and the Full Force Dance Team kept the beat going until around 2 p.m., when park attendees were encouraged to make their way toward the Grants Rodeo Grounds.
The celebration continued into the evening with the Wild West Days Rodeo at the Grants Rodeo Grounds, followed by a live performance by Chevel Shepard, winner of The Voice.
The day concluded with a spectacular fireworks display courtesy of the City of Grants, at 8:45 p.m., launched from the hilltop behind Grants High School.
Attendees set up lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and folding tables to take in the colorful finale under the desert night sky — a perfect end to a patriotic and community-driven day.
Gratitude to Sponsors
Chamber President Melinda Montano called the parade “an unforgettable celebration of community, heritage, and pride.”
With support from sponsors like Wilson & Company, Mt. Taylor Medical Center, Ed Corley Ford, Continental Divide Electric Cooperative, and the City of Grants Lodgers Tax Board, this year’s celebration was able to be offered for free to the community.
A special thank you went to the leadership and staff at Mt. Taylor Medical Supply and the staff and leadership of Grants Wellness, for their above-andbeyond support.