Equestrian entries are returning for 2024
The City of Alameda has named Vietnam Veteran and tireless local advocate Joe LoParo to serve as Grand Marshal of the 47th Annual 4th of July Parade, along with U.S. Congresswoman Barbara Lee as Honorary Grand Marshal.
The beloved annual parade, which has bragging rights as the longest in the nation with a route that spans over 3 miles, attracts more than 60,000 spectators from the Bay Area and beyond, who line the city to witness more than 170 entries and 2,500 participants, including VIPs, equestrians, dance troops, community groups, and marching bands.
Alameda residents, nonprofit organizations, community groups, and businesses are encouraged to take part in the parade. Register online by 5 p.m. on Sunday, June 16 to participate. Registration is free for individuals and non-profits, $50 for Alameda businesses.
2024 Grand Marshals
As she ends a long and distinguished career in public service, Congresswoman Barbara Lee will serve as Honorary Grand Marshal. Congresswoman Lee has represented Alameda in the United States Congress since 1998, in the California State Senate from 1996 to 1998, and in the State Assembly from 1990 to 1996. Her term ends after the upcoming November election.
This year’s Grand Marshal is Joe LoParo, who served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War as a crewmember on a helicopter squad that helped evacuate 10,000 individuals. Returning to America from Vietnam, he was stationed at the Alameda Naval Air Station and decided to make Alameda his home. Today he is a local real estate broker and a member of the Alameda County Veteran Affairs Commission, Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 400, American Legion Post 647, Alameda Naval Air Museum, Elks Lodge #1015, and Mastick Senior Center. He organizes Alameda’s annual Memorial Day Ceremony and advocates tirelessly for veterans and active-duty service members. At this year’s 4th of July Parade, Alameda will salute Joe LoParo!
Get involved
The parade still needs sponsors, volunteers, and drivers with classic and convertible cars to provide rides for our VIPs. More information is available online at the City of Alameda 4th of July Parade web page. If you’d like to help out, please send an email with your name, primary phone number, and email address to [email protected].
Run the parade route
The parade route provides a perfect venue for the Alameda 4th of July R.A.C.E, a 5K run that benefits Alameda’s Midway Shelter for Women and Children. Register online today to run or walk the parade route at 9 a.m., then watch the parade at 10. And be sure to cheer on the runners, walkers, stroller pushers, and more as they pass by.
