Alameda’s Fourth of July Parade Starts on Park Street

Independence Day 2018

Get ready to have some fun in Downtown Alameda on July 4th.

The Mayor’s 4th of July Parade is one of the best Independence Day parades in the Bay Area. Spectators of all ages look forward to seeing a lively procession of vintage cars, hand-decorated flatbeds (“floats”), dancing horses, marching bands, dancing troupes, cheering squads, bicyclists, musicians, costumed characters, clowns, and surprises.

Since its inception in 1976, the annual parade has grown to boast over 160 “floats” and over 2,500 participants that travel along a 3.3 mile route across the island city, from Park Street on the east end to Webster Street on the west end.

The 2018 Grand Marshals are Pauline Kelly, former owner of Pauline’s Antiques, and Duane Watson, former owner of Lee Auto Supply. Both were longtime shop owners in Downtown Alameda before retiring this year.

For a front row seat along the Park Street sidewalks, plan to arrive well before the 10:00 am start time. The Mayor’s 4th of July parade attracts over 20,000 people and many of the spectators search out the best viewing spots in Downtown Alameda. 

Once the parade begins, there is still plenty of standing room available along the stretch of Park Street as the parade begins at the corner of Park Street & Lincoln Avenue and proceeds down the length of Park Street before continuing onto Otis Drive.

If one is in the mood for a refreshment or snack while attending the parade (or maybe even do a little shopping), you’ll find a number of businesses in Downtown Alameda’s Historic Park Street Business District. Enjoy the “parade” of coffee houses, donut shops, and dessert places; breakfast spots, lunch stops, and family diners; gift shops, clothing stores, and children’s places; bookstores, bike stores, and antique stores; plus many locally-owned services!

Check out this link for route map, detours (including bus lines), and other city-sponsored events: http://alamedaparade.com/route/#more