Celebrating the Red, White and Blue Island-Style
Rather than staying home this year, enjoy Independence Day Island-Style on Catalina Island. With afternoon parades, USC marching band performances and dazzling fireworks, Catalina takes celebrating the United States of America’s birthday to the next level.
The day begins with judging for the Annual Golf Cart Parade at 10 am on lower Descanso. This year, the Island is honoring the World Series Champions, the Chicago Cubs, with the theme Fly Your Flag, An Homage to the National Pastime. Many locals will enter their golf carts decorated with the W flag, which dates back to the time of Wilmington Transportation Co and the Cubs long history with Catalina including spring training on the island. Awards will be given for Most Patriotic, Best of Theme, Most Creative and Best of Parade in the categories of golf carts & floats.
Join locals for a BBQ at “Cubbies Corner” located at the Fuel Dock where they will be serving burgers, hot dogs and drinks from 11 am – 4 pm.
Before the parades begin, journey over to Wrigley Stage to kick up your heels for Swing (Square) dancing at Wrigley Stage from 11:30 am – 12:30 pm.
The Golf Cart parade will start at the Catalina Casino around 1 pm led by the Parade Grand Marshall, Lolo Saldana and the USC Marching Band down Crescent Ave. Locals and visitors look forward to this parade every year and come up with the most creative ideas and decorations to make their golf cart stand out. The fun does not end there. Following the Golf Cart parade, the Catalina Island Yacht Club hosts their annual Dinghy Parade in the Avalon Bay. Watch as the boats cruise by decorated in red, white and blue.
4th of July is never complete without fireworks. Catalina Casino hosts its annual celebration in the Ballroom with a live performance by the USC Marching Band and James Moody, Buffet Dinner and Fireworks viewing from the grand Casino Balcony. Or, enjoy evening festivities at “Cubbies Corner” where they will be serving steak and fish skewers, “Curse of the Goat” dish, beer and wine. Highly recommended you make reservations for either event as both will fill up fast. Around 9 pm, the spectacular fireworks light up the sky over Avalon Bay making this a holiday you will long remember.
by Amanda Bombard