Small Town, Big Spirit
By Linda Turner Griepentrog
For the TODAY
“Bigger and better than last year!” That’s how parade organizer Doug Schuyley describes this year’s event. The famed Gleneden Beach July 4th Parade returned last year after several years of hiatus due to COVID, and now is slated to once again be an annual event for the community and its many visitors. There’s sure to be lots of flag waving and red, white and blue Americana.
The parade is the main event of the holiday extravaganza. It kicks off at 1 pm and begins with the US Coast Guard Honor Guard flag presentation. Following in the line-up you’ll find some crazy clowns, decorated vehicles, handcrafted floats, community groups and folks dressed up in all kinds of patriotic garb. The Sheriff’s mounted posse and local community dignitaries will be on hand, as will some cheerleaders to add spirit to the event. And, let’s not forget the old-fashioned fire engines and classic cars. There are always pets decked out in their colorful costumes, and first responders will be on hand if they’re not otherwise busy. One of the most anticipated parade traditions continues with candy being handed out by participants to onlookers along the route.
But it’s not only the parade that’s a draw.
“The event goes beyond the parade,” said Warren Ryland, parade PR person. “It’s now an expansive street fair with events both before and after the parade.”
The fun gets underway at 11 am.
A new attraction this year is a dunk tank. Rumor has it that someone notable will be the dunkable party, but you’ll have to show up to find out who it is.
“This year we have an expanded vendor area across the street from the Side Door Cafe, as well as the area in the Blake’s Nursery parking lot,” Schuyley said.
That area will host food vendors like Fishing Rock Eatery, Big Foot Fry Bread, Shorty’s Hot Dogs and more, including every kid’s much-loved cotton candy, and also vendors selling jewelry, wood products, beads and other handcrafted items and a face-painting booth.
A returning adult favorite is the Beer Garden outside of Salishack Tavern and across the street from the live music venue, where two notable bands will offer music during the day. Johnny Wheels & the Swamp Donkeys will play from 2 to 4 pm and EZ Eddy & the Jumpers will take the stage next and play until 6 pm. DJ Roger Robertson will be on hand to handle the music area.
The parade is an entirely volunteer effort, so donations and sponsorships are needed to support the event. This year’s major sponsor is the Newport Lions Club. If you’d like to donate or participate in the parade, or volunteer to help, sign up at glenedenparade.org. The deadline for sign-ups is Monday, June 30.
“Volunteers get a front-row seat for the parade and a bright colored vest to wear as added incentive,” Schuyley said.
So, bring your lawn chairs, sunscreen, water and sunglasses and pick your spot. Note that major streets will be closed ahead of the parade and no on-street parking is allowed along the route. Parking is available as noted on the map, and along side streets not on the parade route.
The big question—will the inflatable dancing sharks be back for 2025?
The Gleneden Beach 4th of July Festivities begin at 11 am, with the parade starting off at 1 pm. For more information, go to glenedenparade.org.
July 4th Pancake Breakfast!
Come early and fuel up prior to the parade at the Gleneden Beach Community Club from 8 to 10:30 am. The menu includes all-you-can-eat pancakes; sausage or ham, scrambled eggs, orange juice and hot beverages. The cost is $10 for adults, $6 for kids age 6 to 12, and kiddos age 5 and younger eat free. In addition to the great food, Uncle Sam will be handing out free patriotic bracelets while supplies last and the club is selling commemorative Gleneden Beach shirts. For more information, go to glenedenbeach.org.