City of Scotts Valley’s annual Fourth of July Parade returns Saturday with an extended route, road closures and safety measures in place for the community celebration, according to the Scotts Valley Police Department.
The parade will begin at 11 a.m. and is expected to conclude around 1 p.m. on Scotts Valley Drive. Organizers have once again extended the route to provide additional viewing opportunities for spectators.
The parade will start at the intersection of Scotts Valley Drive and Carbonero Way, travel north to El Pueblo Road, make a U-turn, continue south to Civic Center Drive, make a second U-turn and return to Carbonero Way, where it will end. Accessible parking and a designated ADA viewing area will be available at 5007 Scotts Valley Drive.
Parade participants can pre-register using the city’s online application form. All participants must check in on Carbonero Way beginning at 9:30 a.m. and no later than 10:25 a.m. Roads will close at 10:30 a.m., and participants will be directed to designated staging areas, which are the same as last year.
“To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all, we ask that attendees and participants refrain from spraying water during the parade,” police said. “Water activity has previously resulted in damage to electronic equipment and classic vehicles and will not be permitted this year.”
Spectators are also asked to maintain a safe distance from horses and other animals, reduce speed when nearby and avoid sudden loud noises that could startle them.
Candy may be distributed during the parade, but it may not be thrown from floats or vehicles. Instead, candy must be handed out by a designated walker alongside the float or vehicle.
Scotts Valley Drive will be closed between Civic Center Drive and El Pueblo Road from 10:30 a.m. until approximately 1:30 p.m. El Pueblo Road will remain accessible during the closure.
“Come join Scotts Valley in celebration of Independence Day with a spectacular parade that includes a flyover and Scouts Color Guard,” police said.
