Takoma Park is preparing to celebrate Independence Day with its annual July 4 Parade and Evening Street Party, bringing together residents for a day of community pride, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
This year’s parade theme is “Celebrating the People of Takoma Park: Elders, History and the Democratic Spirit.” The parade will take place on Saturday, July 4, from 10am to 11:30am and will feature a grand marshal, community groups, performers, local organizations, and residents marching through the city’s historic streets.
The parade will begin at the intersection of Carroll and Ethan Allen avenues before traveling south on Carroll Avenue to Willow Avenue. Participants will then continue along Willow Avenue, Tulip Avenue, and Maple Avenue before the parade concludes near Ritchie Avenue.
Organizers note that the route forms a U-shaped loop, bringing spectators back within a few blocks of the starting point. Popular viewing locations include Carroll Avenue between Ethan Allen and Willow avenues, Willow Avenue, Tulip Avenue, and Maple Avenue. The stretch of Maple Avenue between Tulip and Philadelphia avenues is expected to be among the most crowded viewing areas due to the abundance of shade. Spectators can also gather near the reviewing stand in front of Piney Branch Elementary School.
Residents should be aware that roads adjoining the parade route and staging area will close beginning at 9am. Access into the restricted area will not be permitted without a pass after that time. Most roads are expected to reopen once the parade route is cleared, no later than 1pm.
One exception is Maple Avenue between Philadelphia Avenue and Ritchie Avenue, which will remain closed throughout the day to accommodate the city’s evening festivities.
Following the parade, residents are invited to return for the annual Evening Street Party from 6pm to 9pm along Maple Avenue between Philadelphia and Ritchie avenues.
The celebration will feature live music, food trucks, a beer and wine garden hosted by Takoma Bev Co., children’s activities with Let’s Play America, and additional family-friendly entertainment.
City officials encourage residents and visitors to plan ahead for road closures and arrive early to secure a viewing spot along the parade route. Additional information can be found here.
