Spirit of Watsonville: July 4th Parade | 2026

Submitted by the Event Organizer

Get ready to celebrate Independence Day with us at our annual Spirit of Watsonville 4th of July Parade!

The West Coast Ravens are returning with another exciting live flyover, made possible through the generous support of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. Don’t miss this high-flying moment during one of Watsonville’s favorite Independence Day traditions.

Here’s all you need to know to enjoy the festivities:

Saturday, July 4

Start Time: 12:30 PM

Location: Historic Downtown Watsonville

Parade begins at 12:30PM and travels down Main Street from St. Patrick’s Church to First Street.

Plus, the Marketplace on Peck Street will be open from 12-3 PM, so you can enjoy fresh, local produce and goods!

Friendly reminders to help keep everyone safe:

• For the safety of yourself and the people participating in the parade, please do not run out into the street during the parade.
• Stay on the curb and out of the parade route to allow participants to pass safely.
• If you are near the front of the crowd, remember those standing behind you and be considerate by not blocking views.
• Remember, there are likely families with young children watching the parade, so please use appropriate language
• Please give the horses/animals plenty of space and do not approach, pet, or startle them. Loud noises and sudden movements can make them uneasy.
• Clean up after yourself. Dispose of trash properly or take it with you if bins are full.

Thank you for helping make this a fun and safe celebration for everyone, we can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Start Time: 12:30 PM

Location: Historic Downtown Watsonville

Parade Theme: The Spirit of 1776, The Heart of Watsonville

Parade Entries: Required to be entertaining, creative and exciting. Participate with a float, band, colorful costumes, uniformed attire, drill, dance team, comical routines, etc. Think outside the box! All parade entries will be selected based on how well they plan their presentations. Please read the parade guidelines, included within the application. Respond early to be considered for placement in the parade. Applications will be accepted through June 4.

Notification of acceptance will be emailed in June.

Disclaimer: Please double check event information with the event organizer as events can be canceled, details can change after they are added to our calendar, and errors do occur.