Julian Gets Ready for July Fourth Festivities
By Bobbi Zane

Archive Photos by Darrel Kinney

The entire town of Julian is revving up for what many call the "best small town Independence Day parade in America." It's set to step off from the Julian High School at noon on Independence Day, following a morning of exciting pre-parade activities. 

As it has for more than a decade, the townsfolk get into this purely local event. Marching down Main Street you'll see local youngsters in the Julian Eagles High School Band, members of Julian's fabulous Floozies singing patriotic songs, Miss Julian and Miss Teen Julian and their courts, the Boy Scouts Color Guard, colors presented by a local military unit, animals raised by 4-H Club members, lovingly restored antique cars, a battalion of costumed Civil War re-enactors, and Lew La Dou standing in for Uncle Sam.

Some say the best part of the parade takes place before the first unit steps out. It's the screaming demonstration flyover by a squadron of vintage World War II aircraft, highlight of the pre-parade activities. This year, visitors can take a chance on winning a personal aircraft tour by purchasing raffle tickets that will be available on parade morning.

Julian's annual July Fourth celebration is central to a weekend full of activities including the historic quilt show displaying antique and new quilts by members of the Julian Woman's Club, an old-fashioned deep-pit barbecue sponsored by the American Legion and music and entertainment going on in town all day.

The parade was started in 1993 by a committee headed by Jim Mazzone, who wanted to present the event for the Julian community. He solicited entries from local organizations, schools and individuals. The small-town vision has persisted over the years. Nearly everyone in Julian lines the sidewalks of Main Street early to get the best view. Now, however, they are joined by thousands of visitors who want a slice of the town's old-fashioned celebration.