Santa Monica 4th of July Parade. Photo Courtesy Bobby Shriver @bobbyshriver
Santa Monica 4th of July Parade. Photo Courtesy Bobby Shriver @bobbyshriver

SANTA MONICA—The ninth annual 4th of July Parade in Santa Monica began at 9:30 a.m. at Pico and Main Street.

Multiple floats, cars, and businesses took part in the parade. Photo Courtesy @HappyMamaLA
Multiple floats, cars and businesses took part in the parade. Photo Courtesy @HappyMamaLA

Thousands of spectators flocked the streets to see the array of floats, fire trucks, cars, walkers and horses. There were more than 90 entries.

Walkers participating in the parade hand out wrist bands to the public. Photo Courtesy Annie Lohr on Periscope
Walkers participating in the parade hand out wrist bands to the public. Photo Courtesy Annie Lohr on Periscope

People were advised to come early and park, or use bicycles, as the streets were blocked for the parade.

The theme this year was “Inspirational Heroes,” which was represented by Will Montgomery, the global messenger for Special Olympics. U.S. veterans also took part.

High five! Local enforcement interact with the public. Photo Courtesy Nikki Dibbling @ikkinesque
High five! Local enforcement interact with the public. Photo Courtesy Nikki Dibbling @ikkinesque

Santa Monica Mayor Kevin McKeown, along with Senator Ben Allen and Congressman Ted Lieu, also participated in the parade, which was produced by the Ocean Park Association.

The procession ended at the beach parking lot after a 1.4-mile stretch.