TOP 10 TIPS
For Enjoying the Arlington 4th of July 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 or 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!
PARADE SCHEDULE
The streets around the route and staging areas are closed
7:30 amColor Guards deploy along the route
8:15 am—8:30 amNational Anthem is led by the Arlington Community Band and Boy Scout and Girl Scouts along the route
9:00 amPARADE BEGINS!
9:03 amParade ends (approximate time)
11:00 amStreet sweeper begins cleanup
12:00 pmAwards Ceremony begins at Knapp Heritage Park. 201 W. Front Street (intersection of Front Street and Pecan Street). Open to the public and free admission. Please join us!
1:00 pmPARADE FOOTAGE
PARADE ROUTE
(click to enlarge)