Coronado Gears Up for Annual Fourth of July Celebration

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The Coronado Fourth of July parade brings the community together in festive celebration.

News Summary

Coronado is preparing for its annual Fourth of July celebration, the city’s largest event. The festivities include a parade, concerts, fireworks, and the Crown City Classic race. Volunteer involvement is crucial to coordinate the events, emphasizing community spirit. This year also features a documentary on the parade’s history. The celebration connects residents and visitors, showcasing patriotism and camaraderie.

Coronado is gearing up for its annual Fourth of July celebrations, which is recognized as the biggest event of the year in the city. The Coronado Fourth of July, a non-profit organization, spearheads the festivities each year, relying on the dedication of an all-volunteer board of directors. This year, the event will see its current president, Jamie Hartnett, stepping down after her two-year term as she has reached the limit on board service.

The organization operates with a board of 12 members and a strong reliance on the community, needing over 150 volunteers to execute the celebrations smoothly. Kathy Summers, the Volunteer Coordinator, noted that her work in volunteer coordination for the past four years emphasizes the importance of community involvement in the event. The Fourth of July celebration is deeply rooted in the spirit of camaraderie and volunteerism, reflecting the interests of residents through feedback on previous events.

This year’s festivities will include a parade, which is a cherished local tradition characterized as “sacred” by residents. The parade is expected to feature between 100 to 120 entries, requiring meticulous timing coordination to ensure a seamless experience. Volunteer roles during the parade range from banner carriers to flow monitors and ushers, all contributing to a well-organized event.

Following the parade, attendees can look forward to a series of three concerts at Spreckels Park. The concerts will showcase a mix of Disney songs, patriotic music, and a dance concert, further enhancing the festive atmosphere of the celebration. One of the highlights of the evening will be the fireworks display scheduled for 9:00 PM from Stingray Point. However, there is ongoing discussion regarding the environmental impact of fireworks, with considerations for changes in future celebrations.

Additionally, the Crown City Classic, a 12K and 5K race established in 1973, will take place on the same day, starting at 7:00 AM. The race not only encourages community spirit and promotes healthy lifestyles, but proceeds also benefit youth sports in Coronado via the Islander Sports Foundation. Participants in the race will receive a commemorative event tee, finisher medal, and access to an expo, making the running experience memorable.

Children will also have the opportunity to participate in activities, including a Kids Half Mile race that aims to encourage healthy habits from an early age. The organization promotes a family-friendly environment, welcoming families and children to volunteer and engage in the various activities planned for the day.

A noteworthy addition this year is an Emmy-nominated movie that documents the 75th anniversary of the Coronado parade, a project developed with assistance from the Coronado Historical Association. The completion of this documentary showcases the rich history and importance of the parade in the community.

Registration for both the Crown City Classic races and volunteer opportunities is accessible online, reinforcing the event’s commitment to fostering community involvement. Overall, the Fourth of July celebration in Coronado not only brings together residents but also attracts visitors from the broader San Diego area, reinforcing community bonds and the shared spirit of patriotism. This year’s event promises to be a grand celebration, honoring both tradition and communal spirit as Coronado marks its Independence Day festivities.