Residents combed the sidewalks for blocks up and down Main Street on Sunday for the town's annual Fourth of July celebration. Families had many events to choose from, including the town's All-American Picnic at the Civic Center, Fine Art al Fresco at Kuleto's Restaurant, Strike Up the Band at Los Gatos High School and free Music in the Park with the popular Top 40 group The Hitmen.

The day's festivities began early in the morning as crowds browsed through the farmer's market. At 11 a.m. Mayor Steve Glickman kicked off the town's opening ceremonies at "Patriot Plaza" with an announcement of the day's events, and town council members welcomed the crowd. Veterans of the regional West Valley Memory Post 99 of the American Legion raised the flag to the Star Spangled Banner, and the mayor led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance.

"It's a great day to celebrate the Fourth of July and help our veterans," said Commander Chuck Berls, who was present for the ceremony along with fellow servants of the post, Earl Honey and Art Spicer.

Entertainment at the Civic Center included performances by the Town Square Harmonizer's Quartet, Farouche and the Desert Delights belly dancers, the Fisher Middle School Players, the Los Gatos High School Spirit Squad and the local Sizzling Seniors.

One popular event for children was the local fire engine parked on the Civic Center lawn, which they could tour while wearing an authentic fire hat.

A new event among this year's festivities was the Fine Art al Fresco art show at Kuleto's in the Hotel Los Gatos. The Los Gatos Arts Commission hosted the show, in which 22 local artists displayed and sold their works. Local artist Mayo, well known for her distinctive hand-made cards, helped gather this year's artists along with Groves, the event coordinator.

"I think it's a wonderful thing—there's such a wealth of talent here in Los Gatos," said Philip Farrar, manager of Kuleto's. A member of the Town of Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce board, Farrar is trying to host events such as this to help spread the word that Los Gatos is a "great escape."

Around 1:30 p.m., the sounds of the San Jose Wind Symphony could be heard for blocks as the Strike Up the Band concert began on the high school lawn. One of the most popular aspects of this traditional concert is the symphony's grand finale of the classic 1812 Overture, in which live cannons are set off.

"It makes for a really fun Fourth of July celebration," said Ted Simonson, former principal of the high school. He originally helped move this event to the school's front lawn about 10 years ago. "It also allows our band boosters to raise much-needed funds," he adds, referring to the delicious barbecue and refreshing root beer floats being served up by members of the marching band and color guard.

Families enjoyed the treats and musical entertainment while lounging in the sun.

"We're having a great time", said local resident Rich Rifredi.