Novato Readies for July 4 Parade

Volunteers in Novato are gearing up for the city's annual July 4 bash.

The July 4 parade is the North Bay's biggest, attracting up to 10,000 visitors, organizers say.

This year's parade is the 21st annual event, but the parade itself has historic roots that trace back to the early part of the 20th Century, organizers say.

The parade will be held from 10 a.m. to noon with a “Buckaroo Breakfast” starting at 7 a.m. and pre-parade entertainment starting at 9 a.m.

The parade will run on Grant Avenue from Reichert Avenue to Seventh Street.

The theme for this year's parade, "Novato's Unsung Heroes," reflects the selection of Pini Hardware owner Chip Young as the parade's Grand Marshall.

In addition to frequently makes his storefront available to youth groups holding fundraisers, Young has headed Novato's Christmas tree-lighting event for several years and serves on many community-oriented committees.

Notable parade guests include Novato's 2012 Citizen of the Year Patty Bennett and Novato astronaut Dr. Yvonne Cagle.

This year's events features more floats and musical entries than usual, organizers say.

Live entertainment at the event will include musical performances by the Bushnell’s Irish Piper Band, the St. Mary’s Girls Bell and Drum Corps, the Novato Summer Music Institute, the Fountain of Ukes and a kazoo band. 

Novelty marching groups, the Nave Patrola and Pini Plungers will also be on hand.

Organizers say the parade costs about $10,000 to $12,000 to put on by an all-volunteer staff of about 20.

Admission to the parade is free. Suggested donations for the Buckaroo Breakfast ($5 for adults, $3 for children) will benefit local charities.

For more information visit: http://novatoparade.com/