Independence Day is, undeniably, a reason to celebrate. It marks the moment the nation officially broke away from the British Empire and, years later of course, the moment humanity united behind Bill Pullman to fend off an alien invasion. Santa Monica’s Fourth of July parade returns this year with the same sun-soaked route and community spirit, but with the addition of a special nod to the city’s 150th anniversary.
The parade will begin at 9:30am Friday, starting at Pico and Main Street and heading south along Main before turning onto Marine and ending at Barnard Way. It’s expected to draw thousands of spectators and hundreds of participants in festive floats, marching groups, and musical performances. Last year’s event brought more than 15,000 people to the streets and about 1,500 participants, with organizers anticipating even more this year thanks to outreach efforts beyond city lines.
“The folks from Pacific Palisades are joining us this year, which will be great,” said Jeff Jarow, co-founder of both the Ocean Park Association (OPA) and the Main Street Parade. “We’ve waived participation fees for them and we’d love to see that community come out and be part of this.”
Jarow has been involved in organizing the parade since its inception. In addition to leading OPA and the Santa Monica Sister City Association, his civic involvement includes being on the board with the Chamber of Commerce, the Pier Corporation, the YMCA and the PTA. “Every year it gets more fun,” he said. “And this year’s theme, celebrating 150 years of Santa Monica, gives us something special to reflect on together.”
Residents are encouraged to walk, bike or scoot to the parade route. Streets along and around the route will be closed to vehicle traffic from 6am to noon and public parking is available west of Neilson Way. Parade-watchers can line the route or congregate near the Ocean Park Library, which will serve as the official grandstand location.
To ensure the event remains family-friendly and safe, the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) is ramping up its deployment.
“The Fourth of July is one of the busiest weekends of the year for our beach,” said Lieutenant Lewis Gilmour. “It’s a time when thousands come out to enjoy Santa Monica’s coastline and our job is to help make sure that happens safely.”
In preparation, SMPD will activate a citywide deployment plan involving officers from Patrol, Downtown Services, the Directed Action Response Team, the Homeless Liaison Program, Traffic and Public Service Officers.
“We’ll have a visible presence throughout the weekend,” Gilmour said. “We’re here to help ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable holiday. Please do your part and follow the rules so we can all celebrate responsibly.”
Those rules include strict bans on fireworks, alcohol on the beach, gas-powered generators, amplified music, open flames and all weapons. The department emphasized that even so-called “safe and sane” fireworks are illegal in Santa Monica and subject to citation or arrest.
Gilmour also urged pet owners to be extra mindful during the holiday weekend. “We ask everyone to stay aware of their surroundings and be patient, it’s going to be crowded and traffic will be heavy,” he said. “If you’re coming to the beach, bring the essentials, but leave the alcohol and fireworks at home.”
For dog owners, he reminded: leashed dogs are allowed only on paved paths and the boardwalk, never on the sand or in the water. “Hot pavement can seriously injure your dog’s paws,” Gilmour said. “And leaving pets in a hot car is not only dangerous, it’s illegal.”
Every year, shelters across the country report spikes in runaway pets and animal injuries due to fireworks. Elizabeth Noble, executive director of the Santa Monica Animal Shelter Foundation, said the loud booms and flashing lights are not just an annoyance for animals, but a genuine health threat.
“To many pets, the sound of fireworks is terrifying,” Noble said. “They don’t understand what’s going on. It can cause panic, escape attempts and injury.”
Noble encourages residents to make preparations before the festivities begin. That includes ensuring all cats and dogs are microchipped and wearing up-to-date ID tags, creating safe indoor spaces with soft music and avoiding restraint or tying pets up outdoors. “Never leave a dog alone in the yard on the Fourth,” she said. “Even the calmest dog can bolt if startled.”
Other tips include keeping pets indoors during the evening hours, closing windows and blinds and having a trusted person stay home with animals known to suffer from noise anxiety. If necessary, residents should consult a veterinarian about calming solutions.
The shelter itself will remain open through the weekend and continues to house adoptable animals in need of homes. While not everyone has room to take in another furry friend, Noble pointed out that there are other ways to help.
“Some of our animals need costly veterinary care,” she said. “We’re always grateful for donations and people can also support us by purchasing items from our Chewy wishlist.”
In the meantime, city officials, volunteers and parade participants are finalizing floats, preparing decorations and encouraging the public to join the celebration with enthusiasm and courtesy.
“It’s a big day for our community,” Jarow said. “We just ask that everyone enjoy it respectfully. Leave your fireworks at home, bring your sunscreen, water and let’s all have a good time.”
For questions about participating in the parade, residents can contact the Ocean Park Association. To adopt or support animals in need, call the Santa Monica Animal Shelter at (310) 458-8595.
scott.snowden@smdp.com