NEW ROADS - Thousands of residents from New Roads and surrounding Pointe Coupee Parish turned out on Monday for the annual Independence Day Boat Parade.

Dozens of boats decked out in patriotic decoration appeared in this year's version of the event, which is held in New Roads every Fourth of July.

The theme for the 2016 parade was "American Hero" with the participants celebrating the sacrifices made by the men and women who are serving or who have served in the U.S. military.

The judges on hand took the opportunity to select a winner with utmost seriousness.

"We look for a lot of creativity," said Aimee Moreau, a boat parade judge. "Of course, patriotic is great, but creativity and use of the theme usually wins."

We'll have more from the boat parade on our evening broadcasts at 4, 5, and 6 p.m. Monday.

This was the 34th anniversary of the first boat parade in New Roads.