𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗡𝗗𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗧𝗢𝗚𝗘𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗥: Santa Monica Welcomes Pacific Palisades to Fourth of July Parade on Main Street

SANTA MONICA, CA — July 4, 2025 — In a spirited celebration of Independence Day and community resilience, the Ocean Park Association hosted the 19th Annual Fourth of July Parade along Main Street in Santa Monica. This year’s event carried added significance as residents from fire-stricken Pacific Palisades were invited to join the festivities after canceling their own local parade. The procession began at 9:30 a.m. at Pico and Main Street, winding south through Ocean Park and concluding at Barnard Way. Thousands of spectators lined the route to cheer on a vibrant display of floats, marching groups, musical performances, and community spirit. Among the highlights were the Santa Monica High School Marching Band, whose rousing patriotic melodies echoed through the corridor, and the Santa Monica College Cheerleaders, who energized the crowd with dynamic routines. Santa Monica Police Department’s Mounted Unit also participated, drawing applause as officers rode on horseback in ceremonial formation. Elected officials and city leaders made appearances, including Mayor Lana Negrete, State Senator Ben Allen, Assemblymember Richard Bloom, Police Chief Ramon Batista, and Fire Chief Matthew Hallock. Classic cars—among them a 100-year-old Model T—added historical flair to the procession, while neighborhood groups, youth organizations, cyclists, and performers contributed to a colorful and inclusive celebration of civic pride. The parade served as both a tribute to American independence and a show of regional solidarity, with Santa Monica welcoming Pacific Palisades participants in the wake of recent wildfire devastation. For many, it was a morning marked by unity, joy, and shared gratitude under clear summer skies.