FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Nathalie Wilcox, Community Services Supervisor
Email: nwilcox@southpasadenaca.gov
Subject: Celebrate Unity in Community: Sign Up for South Pasadena’s 4th of July Parade
South Pasadena, CA – The City of South Pasadena invites you and your organization to take part in its cherished Festival of Balloons 4th of July Parade! A community favorite since 1982, the hometown celebration will begin at 11:00 a.m., starting on Diamond Avenue by the Library Community Room and ending at Garfield Park.
The parade has long featured Scouts, elected officials, local service clubs, Little League and AYSO teams, and South Pasadena Tournament of Roses Committee volunteers riding atop the chassis of the City's Rose Parade float. Marching alongside them are dozens of children from the South Pasadena Library’s Summer Reading Program and library staff.
As many locals like to say: “Half the town is in the parade, and the other half is watching it!” Founded by civic leaders Ted and Joan Shaw and David Margrave, this treasured tradition continues to unite the community each Independence Day.
This year’s theme, Unity in Community: One Nation, One Neighborhood, encourages participants to highlight togetherness and creativity through decorations and music. Groups may walk or ride in a decorated vehicle along the approximately 0.6-mile route.
To participate, complete the one-page registration form and agree to the parade guidelines by Thursday, May 29, 2025. Forms can be submitted:
After the parade, join us for the Party in the Park at Garfield Park, followed by the Fireworks Spectacular at South Pasadena High School beginning at 9:00 p.m. The evening includes a pre-show concert from 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
About the City of South Pasadena
The City of South Pasadena is a charming community, situated only six miles from downtown Los Angeles. Called the City of Trees, the area is known for its stunning homes, unique small businesses, and top-quality schools. South Pasadena’s diverse population of about 25,000 occupies a mere 3.44 square miles of flatlands and hillsides on the west side of the San Gabriel Valley. This small-town atmosphere makes South Pasadena one of California's most desirable locations.