Half Moon Bay’s Ol’ Fashioned 4th of July Parade Coming Up

Half Moon Bay celebrates Independence Day and its classic small town spirit with the popular Ol’ Fashioned 4th of July Parade down historic Main Street.

Karol “Bo” Bobko, one of the NASA space shuttle program’s earliest commanders who was recently inducted into the U.S. Astronaut Hall of Fame, will serve as parade Grand Marshal. Bobko flew as the pilot on STS-6, the first flight of space shuttle Challenger, in April 1983. Two years later, he commanded Discovery on STS-51D and landed the shuttle safely despite a blown main gear tire. Six months later, Bobko commanded Atlantis on its maiden flight, STS-51J.

Starting at 12 noon, the delightful, home-spun parade featuring a charming array of creative floats, marching bands, equine groups, classic cars, decorated trikes and bikes, “Pooches on Parade”, youth sports teams, dance and theatre troupes, a Color Guard by the American Legion, and local dignitaries will slowly wind its way through the crowded downtown.

“It’s a beloved institution in our community,” said Cameron Palmer, Co-Chairman of the Ol’ Fashioned 4th of July Parade Committee. “People come out in droves to get a good viewing spot on Main Street. You can see how much they love its small town charm and tradition.”

There is a $10 entry fee for individual parade entries; $20 for groups of three or more.

The parade is sponsored by the Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival which celebrates its 41st anniversary this year on Oct. 15-16.

For parade information, call 650-703-6299.