Residents of a Gaffney neighborhood are busy shining up and decorating their golf carts as they prepare for the ninth annual Sheraton Loop 4th of July Golf Cart Parade.

More than 25 carts will line up for the parade that will begin sharply at 10 a.m. Saturday, according organizers Kim Fowler and Lisa Mullinax.

It has become a tradition as most everyone in the neighborhood spends several hours decorating their carts in a patriotic theme for the parade that takes participants three laps around Sheraton Loop.

"More recently we have had participants who live off the Loop and they too are welcome," Fowler said.

The carts will be judged and certificates awarded for first and second places for best decorated. Spectators are invited to bring a lawn chair or blanket and line the route to watch the festivities.

"This is the only Independence Day parade in Cherokee County, so we encourage everyone to come out and celebrate with us," Mullinax said.

Sheraton Loop is located on the left just past the Cherokee National Golf and Recreation Club west of Gaffney.