Needham's Fourth of July celebration is less than two weeks away, and in preparation for the big event, the Needham Exchange Club has named this year's parade grand marshal.

Former state representative Lida Harkins has been named the 2012 Grand Marshal for the Fourth of July Parade, which will be held on Wednesday, July 4.

"In appreciation of the many years of service that Lida Harkins has committed to the town of Needham, the Needham Exchange Club is honored to recognize her as this year’s Grand Marshal for the Fourth of July Parade," the Exchange Club announced in a press release.

Harkins began her public career in Needham, serving as a Town Meeting Member and later as a six-year member of the School Committee, holding the position of chairwoman for one of those years.

Harkins was elected to the General Court of Massachusetts in 1989 and served as Needham's state representative for 22 years. While in the legislature, Harkins worked on numerous committees including Science and Technology, Education and Housing and Urban Development.

"Lida was always available to answer questions and able to provide important services to her constituents in Needham, such as assuring state participation in the funding for the school renovations and revision of the 766 Law for Special Education," the club said in the announcement. "The Exchange Club is proud to recognize and appreciate Lida’s spirit and dedication to Needham as the Grand Marshal of this year’s Fourth of July Parade."

Needham's Fourth of July festivities will begin on Tuesday, July 3 with food, children's entertainment, a concert by the Reminisants and the anual Fireworks Spectacular, all organized by the Needham Exchange Club.

On the official holiday, Wednesday, July 4, there will be a morning road race, craft fair and flea market, children's parade, Grand Parade and other activities throughout the day.

See the full schedule here. A map of the parade route is available in the gallery above.