VILLE PLATTE, La. (KLFY)-- In Ville Platte, the city held its first-ever Fourth of July celebration for all residents and visitors to enjoy.

During the event, attendees were able to partake in a variety of activities, such as live music, food vendors, and a petting zoo and fun jumps for the kids. Esther Wilson, owner of Paparazzi Jewelry, said the celebration was an opportunity for vendors to not only expand their businesses, but also spread joy to those who may be lacking it.

"We have paparazzi here today. We have lemonade stands here today and different people selling different things", Wilson said. "That's the joy of 4th of July".

Joyci Thomas, a longtime resident of Ville Platte, has seen the town grow and prosper throughout the years. She said the city is filled with lots of love.

"Ville Platte is a small community and we try to stick together, as a family, we trying to do what's best for them", Thomas said. "I'm looking forward to more vendors coming out, the people of Ville Platte to come together as a family, and enjoy life because you never know when it's your last day".

Mayor Ryan Williams said he hopes this event can foster unity within the community, and create a positive space for the youth.

"Just tryna unify people and get everybody on the same accord and when you do things like that, especially doing positive things, it promotes growth," Williams said.

The celebration will conclude with a firework show at 9 p.m.

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