The 4th of July is next weekend but the celebratory parades have already begun. In Citrus Heights the 11th Annual Red, White, and Blue Parade took place on Saturday. This was the first time I’ve attended this parade mainly due to an email I received. Since it was held in the morning the weather was very pleasant and hundreds of families began staking out viewing spots on Sunrise Avenue from just north of Madison to the end near Greenback Avenue.

A skydiving display kicked off the parade after the second diver landed and moved his gear off the street. Marching bands, floats, and several classic cars made their way down the parade route. Children happily waved at parade participants and more so when they noticed that balloons, candy, and other giveaways were passed out. I sat next to Marlene who brought her 3 children and her sister’s children as well and had her hands full keeping an eye on 5 under 12 year old kids kids. The giveaways the children gathered were able to get help keep things in check. I wondered what happened once the sugar from the candy wore off.

Sacramento Kings’ mascot Slamson made an appearance. He’s well known for his skating skills and he entertained children (and adults) and posed for pictures as well. One of the marching groups involved in the parade was the Eastern Way Martial Arts. A member of the Dragon Dancer’s team was Charlie Perez who happens to be a good friend of the family and for whom I was a kindergarten teacher a while ago. He now is a Christian Brothers High School student. I also noticed that many of those watching the parade knew friends or relatives who were members of drill teams, band members, and other participants riding on floats. Although Citrus Heights has grown over the years the parade made it seem like it still has that small community feel.

After the parade ended I walked up to a place on the parking lot that was selling breakfast. Sales from the pancake breakfast benefited the Citrus Heights Rotary Club. Also at the parking lot a BMX Stunt Bike put on a show and was a good end to the festivities.