It ain't no secret, the 4th of July is by far my favorite day of the year. Julian maybe small, but we celebrate the 4th of July in a big way. We love this day so much we literally spend all year planning and fundraising for our annual 4th of July Parade. Every year the Julian 4th of July Parade Committee puts together a spectacular small town parade. For over 20 years, residents and visitors have lined the 4 block parade route through Main Street Julian to celebrate our nation's birthday.
The festivities start in June when t-shirts go on sale and a dedicated group of volunteers decorate Main Street with American Flags. For those looking to be part of the action, this is the time to submit your float entires!
While the locals play musical chairs for the best seat in town along he parade rout the day before, my family is busy organizing the parade order.
On the day of, parade entries are greeted by the parade committee in the staging area. At 9 a.m. the local Highway Patrol closes Main Street to traffic. The pre-events officially start with a fly over of vintage military aircraft at 10 a.m. followed by a mock gunfight with Julian Doves & Desperados Patriotic Musical Presentations.
Just before noon the announcers will ask for volunteers to help carry a the grand old American Flag down Main Street during the second flyover. The Star Spangled Banner will be sung, the cannon will go off signaling the official start of the parade, and the Julian American Legion will begin leading the way! Parade entries consist of a variety of organizations, vintage vehicles, bands, floats, bands, and more!
After the parade, the Julian American Legion puts on a fantastic deep pit BBQ. The Julian Women's club Quilt Show will be going on in the Town Hall. For those interested in doing a little shopping, nows' the time, town is packed before and durning the parade, but it clears out quickly, one the parade is over.
The Julian 4th of July Parade is possible thanks to many generous donors. If you would like to be a sponsor or make a donation, please visit the Parade committee's website. Thank you for your support!
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