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Spirited Step Out for Julian Parade
By Bobbi Zane
Julian honors the patriotism of our country’s founding fathers at its annual Fourth of July celebration, which includes not only the town’s popular parade, but also an array of activities and entertainment throughout the long weekend.
Centerpiece of the celebration is the town’s parade, dubbed by some as “the best small town July Fourth parade in America.” Riding in the parade this year will be Ronne Froman, a retired Rear Admiral who now heads up the Red Cross of San Diego and Imperial Counties.
A classic homegrown event, the Julian parade always features many local handmade floats, the Julian High School Eagles Marching Band, members of the 4-H club with their animals, the American Legion Post 468 color guard, the century-old Mack Stage that members of the Julian Historical Society restored, local llamas, beautifully restored classic cars, and Julian’s famous Floozies.
The parade usually draws more than 5,000 visitors, who spend the day enjoying other activities surrounding the main event. Although some grandstand seating is available, most people take up spots along Main Street where they can visit with other parade-watchers and see the spectacle go by.
In addition to the parade, Julian’s July Fourth festivities include a weekend full of activities: the historic quilt show put on by the Julian Woman’s Club, a traditional deep-pit barbecue dinner presented by the American Legion, and entertainment in town all day on the holiday.
Visitors are advised to get their place on Main Street early. Pre-parade activities starting at 10 a.m. will feature a screaming, barrel-rolling flyover by Bob Grundzik and his crew, flying six vintage World War II aircraft; patriotic songs; speeches by County Supervisor Dianne Jacob and elected representatives in Congress and the California Legislature; an historic entertainment by the Julian Doves and Desperadoes; and ice cream for kids along the parade route.
Those who would like to take a ride in one of the aircraft can purchase raffle tickets during the pre-parade activities. Tickets for the drawing, which benefit the parade, are $10 each or three for $25. The winning ticket will be drawn before the parade steps off at 12:30 p.m.
A visit to the Heritage Quilt Show in Town Hall is a must for most parade visitors. This year’s show will hold a display of quilts designed and stitched by local quilters along with new and cherished heirloom quilts belonging to local residents, and wall hangings and fabric art. Some quilts and other craft items will be on sale downstairs in Town Hall during the show.
Another highlight of the day’s activities is the deep-pit barbecue, a 59-year tradition presented by members of the Julian American Legion, Auxiliary and Sons of the Legion. Festivities at the Legion all will include a bake sale, raffles, and entertainment. For further information, contace the Julian Chamber of Commerce at (760) 765-1857 or visit www.julianca.com.
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