ER's July 4th Fête (Video and Photos)

The was jam-packed with Eagle Rockers of all ages as the community came together for a fun-filled Fourth of July celebration Sunday. The mid-90s heat proved no deterrent to fireworks fans as they set up tents, spread out blankets, lugged chairs and coolers and prepared for the festivities that lasted from 3-9 p.m.

This year marks the 16th annual Fourth of July that the Eagle Rock community has celebrated at the sprawling recreation center, a short walk from the Eagle Rock. Vendors sold snow cones, fresh juices, chicken and corn, candy apple and all kinds of delicious treats. Kids jumped excitedly in one of two bounce houses, blew bubbles with a Snow White character at hand, and got their faces painted for free by Eagle Rock's own "Cookee the Clown."

While the kids played, adults enjoyed "Ronnie and the Classics," a band that played an eclectic mix of songs, ranging from Michael Jackson to Elvis Presley. (See the accompanying video.) “Ronnie and the Classics” has played at Eagle Rock's Fourth of July celebration for the past 14 years. The band took the stage at 6 p.m., followed by remarks from council member , who invited the community to enjoy the celebration.

Organizers arranged for a Los Angeles Police Department helicopter fly-by. Dancers from Elysian Park's "First Impressions Dance Team" also performed, and, at 8:30 p.m., the main event began with a bang, fireworks streaking through the sky.

"It's very neighborhood-oriented,” said Eagle Rock lifelong resident Cookee Hilton, of “Cookee the Clown” fame. “Everyone comes to it—it's where the community gets together."

Jennie Gonzalez, another Eagle Rock resident, appeared to be speaking for just about everybody present when she explained why she was there. She said she loves to be outdoors—“and see the fireworks."

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