Thousands flock to see Monterey Fourth of July parade

MONTEREY >> Thousands from all over the Monterey Peninsula and beyond crowded into downtown Thursday for the annual Fourth of July Parade.

The morning was filled with festive floats, patriotic displays, colorful costumes and bands as the parade made its way up Alvarado, turned on Del Monte Avenue and down Calle Principal.

The parade began promptly at 10 a.m. with groups waving to crowds of families and children and giving out American flags and other trinkets. People made their way out from all over the state and country. The hosts, the Old Monterey Business Association estimated about 15,000 people show up each year for the event.

A group of bagpipers kick off the parade following the color guard. The parade started on the corner of Alvarado and Pearl Street and ended off Calle Principal. (Kyarra Harris/Monterey Herald)

Tracy Isakson from Spokane, Washington said though the parade has become a tradition for family on the Peninsula, this was his first time seeing it up close.

“I’m visiting family. I just got here yesterday, so I haven’t had much time to see everything but this was a good way to start the Fourth of July, my favorite group was the Monterey Pride float,” Isakson said.

Others, like retired couple Brad and Lisa Fendler from Monterey said they have been coming to the parade for the past 25 years.

“We come every year, it’s a great hometown event to come to,” Lisa said. “We love the military floats, and it’s so important to us around here to show our support for them.”

Different organizations and groups sign up to be a part of the parade each year, but there are always returning favorites. Parade goers said there were some acts they missed, but they were still pleased with the turnout this year.

“It’s a charming hometown tradition. I love going every year and bringing my kids,” said Erica Matheson, from Monterey who has been coming to the parade for the last 10 years with her family. “The kids love the classic cars each year. I was a little disappointed that they didn’t have the tap dancing banana group, I don’t think I saw them and they’re my favorite.”

Monterey prides itself on its residents being from various cultures and backgrounds, which was featured in the parade, July 4. A dancer in bright feathers moves to a beat provided by a group of over a dozen drummers. (Kyarra Harris/Monterey Herald)

Following the parade, many guests headed to Colton Hall lawn where a Fourth of July Celebration kicked off for the remainder of the afternoon, offering different food from vendors, space to place lawn chairs and blankets, and live music from local bands.

“It’s nice to get outside and be with family and friends in the downtown space,” said Tim Andler from Monterey. “We can relax and listen to music, there’s always a good food too like this [barbecue ribs from Greater Victory Temple Church].”

In addition to the day’s festivities, Monterey was fortunate enough to have nice weather at about 70 degrees allowing for comfortable wear, and being able to plan for outdoor activities, unlike the heat hitting much of the rest of the state.

“The best parts this year were the Mr. Potato Head balloon and the group dancing with feathers,” said Lori Luzader from Monterey. “We come here early every year to get this spot (Alvarado Starbucks patio) and watch the parade, then we get to relax for the day.”

A woman with Monterey Jamskate dances to music for the crowd as they turn the corner onto Del Monte Avenue. (Kyarra Harris/Monterey Herald)