VALLEY GRANDE — In its fifth year, the Valley Grande Independence Day celebration drew its largest crowd yet, according to Mayor Tom Lee.

Spotty showers throughout the afternoon did not spoil the celebration, which featured a number of games and a rib cookoff.

“This is the largest crowd we have had, and I think more people will come later in the afternoon for the fireworks show,” Lee said. “It’s grown a lot, and we’ve tried to keep it just a fun family affair.

The rib cookoff, Lee said, will also help the Dallas County High School softball team secure state championship rings.

“They got out and sold sponsorships for that and raised around $2,000, which is about half what they need,” he said. “I think this has been their largest fundraiser yet.”

Of all the events, Lee said he received the most compliments on the children’s parade. Children were allowed to decorate wagons, bikes and other things to ride around the walking trail.