Onaway’s Independence Day parade is known for its hometown charm, but this year, something extraordinary is rolling into view — and it’s under wraps until parade time, a Wednesday press release stated.

A never-before-seen float created by Moran Iron Works (MIW), in partnership with the Industrial Arts Institute (IAI) and two acclaimed Northern Michigan mural artists will be unveiled at the parade. The 20-foot-long, 8-foot-tall mobile mural wall blends welded steel with vivid hand-painted art, offering a striking symbol of local creativity and craftsmanship.

The piece was designed and built by IAI students, guided by industry expert Tom Moran, president and founder of MIW, and brought to life by artists Melissa J. McCavitt and Krista Allerding. McCavitt is a self-taught artist whose mural, “Conserving Heritage is Key,” delivers a powerful message about the connection between nature and historical preservation, the release noted. Allerding, a homeschooling mother of seven, created the mural, “A Splash of Color,” which is a joyful tribute to the freedom and beauty of Northern Michigan, the release said.

The float will be revealed and the parade will begin at noon on Friday along M-68, starting from Onaway Area Schools.

Following its parade debut, the float will be installed at the corner of State and Main Streets as a permanent public art installation in Onaway.