Liberty Goes on Parade in Julian This Fourth

Archive photo from Julian Journal

By Bobbi Zane

Julian honors America's Guardians of Liberty 1776 to 2006 at its annual Fourth of July celebration, four days of patriotic and historic activities centered around the annual Fourth of July parade, dubbed by some as "the best small town July Fourth parade in America."

A classic homegrown event, this year's parade salutes local resident Vee Lumpkins, one of the town's most dedicated volunteers, as the grand marshal. Lumpkins will be riding down Main Street along with an array of home-grown floats, equestrian and marching entries including the Julian High School Eagles Marching Band, members of the 4-H Club with their animals, the American Legion Post 468 color guard, the current Miss Julian and her court, Buffalo Soldiers, 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 long before the noon start of the parade to enjoy the pre-parade festivities.

In addition to the parade, Julian's July Fourth festivities include an extended 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.

Plan to get your place on Main Street early. Pre-parade activities starting at 10 a.m. and 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; entertainment by Julian Doves and Desperadoes; and ice cream for youngsters along the parade route.

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 60-year tradition, presented by members of the Julian American Legion, Auxiliary and Sons of the Legion. Festivities at the legion hall include a bake sale, raffles and entertainment.

For information, phone the Julian Chamber of Commerce (760) 765-1857.