Fourth of July Parade is a Family Affair

Thousands of people lined Orange Avenue for the annual Fourth of July parade Monday when organizers had predicted that the crowds would swell to 80,000 people.

Come they did, some from as far away as the Loire Valley in France and Mexico City.

For the Brennen and Rodee families, whose members live throughout San Diego, celebrating the Fourth in Coronado is a tradition that dates back to 1947. Though everyone has moved away from town, they always return for the parade.

“For us its nostalgia,” said Cathy Brennen, who spent much of her childhood in Coronado. 

Martha Winsenhaker tries to make it back every year to celebrate and spend time with her parents. “This is home for me,” she said.

For some families the tradition requires sitting in the same spot each year.  “We’ve been coming to this spot since 1982,” said Robert Price, of their choice seat in front of the Coronado Brewing Co.

To keep up the tradition, his sister Mary Price Boyd takes the hit for the family: She gets up at 4:30 am every Fourth of July to reserve it.

The parade has a special hometown feel. There's no fancy floats to speak of, but lots of bands, horses, old cars and a fleet of dignitaries.

Vice Admiral Richard Hunt served as grand marshal. He is the Commander of Naval Surface Force, Pacific Fleet.  

Rep. Susan Davis (D, San Diego) rode in the parade for the 11th year. “It’s a wonderful experience,” she said. “I love the way all the families come together.”

The City Council was there too. Its youngest member, Mayor Casey Tanaka, and its oldest, Councilman Al Ovrom, strode down the avenue, the mayor in his trademark shorts, flowered shirt and flip flops.

“The Fourth of July is the most wonderful thing to happen in Coronado,” Ovrom said before the parade started.

“This is definitely our best day,” Tanaka added.  “I’m happy to see everyone have a good time

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