What date is the parade? When does the parade start?
The parade takes place July 4 and starts at 10 a.m. Parade participants should be in position by 9:30 a.m.
What’s the route?
The parade runs east to west on Park Street, from 4th Street to Johnson Street.
How long does it last?
The parade lasts about an hour.
Where should we view the parade?
There are plenty of spots along Park Street where one can put up a lawn chair for a great vantage point. Most homeowners on Park Street are happy for viewers to be on the easement between the sidewalk and the street. Please be respectful and clean up after pets and yourself.
Who is the Grand Marshal this year?
The 2024 July 4 Parade grand marshal will be local legend and World War II veteran J.B. McNatt, who was 17 years old when Pearl Harbor was bombed. After graduating high school, he attended East Texas State Teachers College, now Texas A&M University–Commerce, before enlisting. J.B. served stateside Army Air Corps supporting their mission of freedom.
“I never went overseas after I enlisted, but I worked in Colorado, North Dakota, New Mexico, and eventually ended up in Utah…Still, I’m honored to have been able to serve my country,” McNatt recalled.
Who is the parade chairperson for 2024?
Troy Brakefield is the parade chairperson and the point of contact for information at 214-684-2888.
Where should I park?
Parade viewers should not park along Park Street as it will be crowded with floats, bands, and other parade participants. There is some parking on side streets and in parking lots in the nearby area.
Who do people contact if they would like to be in the parade? Is there a cost?
To be in the parade, contact Troy Brakefield at 214-684-2888.
A $50 charge is made to any entrants conducting political or commercial advertising. People wishing to advertise in the parade should bring a $50 check payable to the Park Street Historical Association. For additional information, call Troy Brakefield at 214-684-2888.
What categories are there for parade entries?
The parade will also feature appearances by the Greenville High School Band, Greenville Fire Department, Daughters of the American Revolution, Veterans of Foreign Wars, motorcycles, bicycles, tricycles, jeeps, honor guards, marching groups, and equestrian entries.
The Park Street Historical Association welcomes church groups, scout troops, and community service organizations to enter a float. The association requests everyone decorate floats and vehicles appropriately for the occasion featuring red, white, and blue decorations.
Participants are asked to not throw candy or other items that can litter the street after the parade.
Staging for antique cars will be at the Family Fellowship parking lot, 401 Division St. Other motorized vehicles will be staged at the Living Word Church parking lot at 618 Division St.
What activities are also that day?
Park St. Baptist Church hosts a free pancake breakfast starting at 7:30 a.m. Donations are appreciated.
The city of Greenville Parks & Rec hosts a Firecracker 5K Run starting at 8 a.m.
Immediately after the parade, Kavanaugh Methodist Church hosts a patriotic program followed by complimentary watermelon.
At dusk, the fun moves to the Greenville SportsPark as Parks & Rec hosts the annual Bottle Rocket Bash featuring an amazing fireworks show and other activities.
What else should I know?
It’s Texas, and it can get hot. Please dress appropriately and stay hydrated. And please pick up your trash so everyone will want to have another parade next year.
