Storms clear just in time for Fort Myers Beach Fourth of July parade celebrating America's 250th birthday

FORT MYERS BEACH, Fla. (WINK) — After a stormy start to the Fourth of July, the sun made a timely appearance on Fort Myers Beach, allowing one of Southwest Florida's biggest Independence Day traditions to go off without a hitch.

Morning rain and thunderstorms gave way to blue skies just before the annual Fourth of July parade stepped off along Estero Boulevard, where hundreds of people dressed in red, white and blue gathered to celebrate America's 250th birthday.

The parade featured a little something for everyone. Families lined the streets waiting for candy and beads tossed from floats while patriotic music echoed through downtown. The Lee County Sheriff's Office drew attention with its robotic K-9; dogs rode through the parade sporting festive outfits, Miss Florida greeted spectators from a float, and a caricature artist created keepsake drawings for attendees.

For many visitors, the weather was briefly a concern.

"The lightning and the thunder over there made us a little nervous," said Jim, a visitor from New Jersey. "Beautiful day."

The sunshine brought relief and kept many people's plans intact as they prepared to spend the entire day on Fort Myers Beach before staying for the evening fireworks.

Visitors traveled from across the country—and even around the world—to experience the celebration.

One family visiting from Germany said spending the Fourth of July in the United States has been "perfect" and described the atmosphere on Fort Myers Beach as "a great party."

For Tom Hanson, the holiday is about more than the festivities.

"We're blessed. We're lucky to live in such a beautiful country," Hanson said. "What America really means is freedom, life and liberty."

Although it was Hanson's first time attending the Fort Myers Beach Fourth of July parade, he said it won't be his last. He planned to spend the day on the beach before heading to downtown Fort Myers for more Independence Day celebrations.

As the parade wrapped up, crowds remained on the island, filling restaurants, beaches and sidewalks as they waited for fireworks later in the evening.

What began with dark clouds and thunder ultimately turned into a picture-perfect holiday celebration, giving residents and visitors alike a chance to celebrate one of Fort Myers Beach's favorite Fourth of July traditions under sunny skies.