Get ready to show your red, white, and blue pride: Marple Newtown’s beloved Fourth of July Parade is just around the corner, and this year promises to be bigger and more memorable than ever. From dazzling floats and lively marching bands to classic cars and local heroes, this patriotic celebration always has something for everyone. The parade kicks off at St. Albans Circle and travels eastbound along West Chester Pike, ending at the Broomall Fire Company. Be sure to grab a front-row seat early!
This year’s parade holds special significance as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebration, and organizers are pulling out all the stops. “It’s going to be amazing,” said Parade Committee Chairperson Merrie Staurowsky. “With such a big milestone year for our country, this is something our children will remember for the rest of their lives, just like many of us remember the Bicentennial in 1976.”
One of the biggest highlights of this year’s parade is an exciting and diverse musical lineup, featuring bands traveling from across the country and around the world. Performers will include groups from Italy, England, Florida, Wisconsin and Connecticut, alongside many beloved local favorites. Participants include The Awesome Original Second Time Arounders Marching Band (Florida), Lutheran Vanguard of Wisconsin, Reading Buccaneers, Rumford Drum and Trumpet (England), Triuggio Marching Band (Italy), Marlboro Jr. Ancient Fife & Drum Corps (Connecticut), Woodland String Band, Faraway Guys, Mersey British Rock Band, Marching Cobras and Too Close for Missiles. Additional groups such as the South Philadelphia String Band, Camo Pants, Marple Community Band and Troublemakers Rudimental Drum Corps are also expected to join.
Adding even more pageantry to the celebration, the Mobile Azalea Trail Maids from Alabama will make a special appearance, bringing their signature elegance and Southern charm to the parade route.
Broomall resident Charles Thomas returns for his second year as emcee, ready to keep the energy high throughout the event. The parade will also continue its commitment to accessibility by offering a designated quiet zone along West Chester Pike between Evergreen Avenue and Ann Road, where sirens and loud air horns will be restricted. “We want as many people as possible to enjoy the parade,” Merrie noted.
Beyond the music and marching units, the parade remains a showcase of community creativity. Local clubs, families and organizations are encouraged to participate with decorated floats, bikes and costumes. Awards will be presented at a ceremony following the parade at the Broomall Fire Company.
The popular Red, White and You! contest returns for its seventh year, inviting residents and businesses to decorate their homes in patriotic style. Entries will be accepted through June 27, with judging beginning June 30. “Families tell me how much fun they have driving around Marple and Newtown Square looking at the decorations,” Merrie said. “We encourage everyone to go all out and turn our towns red, white and blue!”
To help fund the parade, the committee will be selling Marple Newtown America 250 commemorative t-shirts as well as new holiday ornaments this year. These items will be available at upcoming community events, including the Newtown Square Farmers Market on June 12. Proceeds, along with contributions from the annual bucket brigade and support from local sponsors, help make the parade possible.
Another important fundraiser is the commemorative booklet, where local businesses and organizations can place ads to show their support. “This parade is truly a community effort,” said Leigh Ann Coary, Co-Vice President of the committee. “It’s because of the generosity and spirit of our residents and local businesses that we’re able to continue this tradition year after year.”
So mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and get ready to celebrate. Whether you’re marching, decorating or cheering from the sidelines, this year’s Fourth of July Parade is sure to be one for the history books and one that future generations will look back on with pride. Visit MarpleNewtownParade.com or follow @MarpleNewtownFourthOfJulyParade on Facebook to learn more.