If it’s the first Sunday in June, it’s time for Balboa Island’s annual parade! Balboa Islanders and people from all over Newport love to come out for this festive event, which showcases everything from classic cars and kids, to golf carts and golden retrievers.

Crowds started gathering early so people could stake out seats all along the parade route. The procession kicked off at 11:00 a.m. on Bayside Drive and headed over the bridge and down Marine Avenue. The theme this year was “Star Spangled Islands,” and that meant lots of red, white and blue everywhere you looked. Participants showed their tight-knit community spirit with creative takes on the theme. The parade included boy scouts, civic clubs, marching bands and rock bands, and even two World War II Veterans. Lollipops and other treats were tossed to children lining both sides of Marine Avenue.

Awards will be given in several categories, including Best Theme by Kids, Best Band and Best Golf Cart. The awards will be presented on Saturday, June 21^st at the All Island Pancake Breakfast.

This year’s “after-event” kept the fun going after the parade was over. The Village Inn hosted a beer and wine garden with hot dogs and bratwursts at the end of Marine Avenue. Food, fun, music and perfect weather – people couldn’t ask for more!

Thank you so much to the Balboa Island Improvement Association, which plans this parade every year. What a gift to the Balboa Island community!