As we trudge through the final remnants of winter, the impending change of season reminds us that it’s time to do something new, embrace new experiences and meet new friends.

And so, strike up the band and join the parade.

Scarborough’s 350th anniversary will be celebrated July 10-14, and no grand celebration is complete without a festive, fun-loving parade. A spirited group of Scarborough residents has gotten behind this effort, and the enthusiasm is contagious.

So, you’ve never designed a float before? Don’t think you have any talent or special attributes to add? No matter. It’s time to break out and break loose. It’s not every day that a community can boast about being in existence for 350 years. Think about it – we were established before our country!

Now, Dale Temm, a member of Scarborough’s 350th Anniversary Committee, knows a good parade when she sees it. She grew up in Scarborough, where her father, J.B. McConnell, built Beech Ridge Speedway and was involved in the 300th celebration. Dale remembers seeing photos of her dad in the Brothers of the Brush Beard Contest (there are rumors that a similar contest is in the works).

No doubt, Mr. McConnell’s spirit rubbed off on his daughter. As an Appalachian Mountain Club trip leader on a Halloween trek, she required participants to hike in costume. Another hike had a Hawaiian theme, with particpants carrying Hawaiian backpacks and wearing grass skirts.

It is with this spirit that Dale is planning no ordinary parade. She’s been working on it for four years, seeking advice from people around town. The strategy so far includes fun, color, noise and music – all centered on a Scarborough history theme encompassing the town’s past, present and future.

The parade committee is fortunate to have people with experience. Barbara and Mark Hough have directed the Yarmouth Clam Festival parade for the past five years. They’ve brought contacts and wisdom to the group, which has so far lined up the 195th Army Marching Band, State Street Jazz Band, Doc’s Banjo Band, Back Bay Four (a barbershop quartet), Stanley Steamer cars, Southern Maine Antique Tractor Club, Step in Time Cloggers and much more.

Lisa Jesmain and Steve Seabury, organizers of the Higgins Beach parade for several years, know how to engage widespread participation. Homespun in nature, entries have a more relaxed, close-to-home, topical theme that makes things both fun and lively. This unique combination of experience will ensure a fun, spirited parade.

Lisa and Steve will provide some homespun ideas and suggested resources to stir your creativity during a parade workshop on Sunday, April 6, from 2-4 p.m., at the Scarborough Public Library. Call the library to register for this workshop at 883-4723.

So, come on Scarborough – make a float, wear a costume, get a music group together, be a part of this extraordinary celebration. Let’s take to Scarborough’s streets July 12.