Spectators

TOP 10 TIPS

For Enjoying the Arlington Independence Day Parade

#1 Scout the Route

Drive the parade route before parade day and find a favorite spot. Maybe it’s under a tree. Maybe it’s near a restaurant or restrooms. Maybe it’s in front of Arlington City Hall, 101 W. Abram, where the judges’ reviewing stand is located and the Arlington Community Band performs during the parade. Maybe it’s near where you hope to park.

#2 Get Shady

Bring an umbrella, parasol or portable canopy for shade! Many veteran spectators bring tents to their favorite spot and camp overnight to assure the location but there are plenty of good spots along the route on parade day. Sunscreen is a must and a hat is great idea.

#3 Arrive Early

The parade leaves the staging area at 9 a.m. but it is advisable to arrive at least by 8 a.m. (earlier is even better) to find a good parking spot and get to your favorite watching place. Blankets are good, but a lightweight folding chair is better.

#4 Parking and Walking

Want lots of the first and very little of the second? Check out the parade website for the many free parking locations, including at the University of Texas at Arlington’s College Park that is providing free public parking for spectators in its three-story covered lot at the intersection of UTA Blvd (Border St.), S. Center St. and Spaniolo Dr. (S. Pecan)

#5 It's Potty Time!

If restrooms are a priority (and they usually are for parents with small children) the amenities map advises where they are.

#6 Hunger Games

Spectators may bring coolers with food and drink (bring a table if you wish!) but many downtown dining facilities along the route will be open before, during and/or after the parade. Planning lunch at one of them while traffic clears is always a good idea.

#7 Get the Play-by-Play

There are 6 announcers at loud speakers along the route who will be giving details of each entry so sitting near them is a good idea.

#8 Can't Experience the Parade LIVE?

The parade is televised live and also airs several times in the week after the parade on AISDTV, Youtube, and the City of Arlington website.

#9 Who Tweeted!?

Spectators are encouraged to use social media to communicate their parade experience with comments and photos, and the 4th of July Association will do the same – on its Facebook (like us!) and via its Twitter account (follow us at Arl4thParade) Photos from the parade will be posted on Flick’r in the days following the parade.

#10 Compare Notes

Which entry had the most spirit? Which ones were most unique? Walk on over to Knapp Heritage Park at 1 pm to see the awards ceremony and cheer on your favorite groups. All are welcome, no admission fee, and plenty of shade!

 

COVID-19 Health and Safety Tips for the Parade

What does social distancing look like? Maintain space between the group you attend with and other groups. It’s a big route and there’s plenty of space to spread out so that everyone can have a great time! Our route Marshal’s will be there to let you know where a less crowded area is.
If you are sick or not feeling well, stay home. The parade will be recorded as normal and you can watch it from the comfort of your home!
We know it’s summer in Texas and it’s hot even at 9am - but if you are comfortable wearing a mask, it is encouraged.



PARADE SCHEDULE



The streets around the route and staging areas are closed

7:30 am

Color Guards deploy along the route

8:15 am—8:30 am

National Anthem is led by the Arlington Community Band and Boy Scout and Girl Scouts along the route

9:00 am

PARADE BEGINS!

9:03 am

Parade ends (approximate time)

11:00 am

Street sweeper begins cleanup

12:00 pm

     PARADE FOOTAGE


 

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