(Minghui.org) On July 4, 2018, Falun Gong practitioners in Rhode Island and Massachusetts participated in the 233rd Fourth of July Parade in Bristol, RI. This city is known for being home to the nation’s oldest Fourth of July celebration.

The Falun Gong procession was led by practitioners dressed as celestial maidens, who held a banner reading ‘Truthfulness, Compassion, Tolerance” and waved colorful ribbons.

Their float featured lotus flowers and practitioners demonstrating the Falun Gong exercises. A banner on the float read, “Falun Dafa Practitioners Honor America’s Freedom of Thought and Expression.”

The design of the float was awarded the “Most Beautiful Non-Commercial” prize by the event organizer.

The practitioners’ waist drum team followed the float and put on a vibrant, joyful performance. Many spectators along the parade route applauded the Falun Gong group. Some yelled out “Thank you” and “Beautiful Falun Gong.” Some asked where they could learn the exercises.

Practitioners in celestial maiden costumes holding banners and ribbons

The float and its award

Colorful lotus flowers and practitioners demonstrating the Falun Gong exercises on the float

Practitioners’ waist drum team performs

Practitioners wave at spectators and wish them a happy Fourth of July