This Fourth of July, celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with a one-of-a-kind community tradition as Lakeside Chautauqua, the Village of Marblehead and Danbury Township come together for an expanded patriotic celebration featuring Lakeside’s beloved Bike Parade and a peninsula-wide Float Parade.
Rain or shine, the festivities begin at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, July 4, as the Float Parade steps off from James Park in Marblehead and travels west to Lakeside’s Second Street Gates. Along the route, guests will enjoy patriotic music, festive floats, decorated golf carts, antique cars and a spirited celebration honoring America 250. The Bike Parade in Lakeside begins at 10 a.m. from Perry Park, traveling west on Second Street to Pavilion Circle.
Lakeside’s Bike Parade
- Date: Saturday, July 4
- Start Time: 10 a.m.
- Starting Location: Perry Park in Lakeside
- Ending Location: Pavilion Circle in Lakeside
- Float Parade begins at 9:30 a.m. at James Park in Marblehead
While the Float Parade travels through Marblehead, Lakeside’s Bike Parade begins at 10 a.m. at Perry Park and proceeds west along Second Street. Pre-registration is not required. Participants of all ages are invited to arrive by 9:30 a.m. at the lakefront path near Perry Park with a decorated bike, scooter or stroller. Please note that electric bikes and electric scooters are NOT permitted in either parade.
Pick Up Location
Before the parade begins, families should designate a meeting location for children after they complete the route. This year, the Bike Parade ends at Pavilion Circle, where children will wait with staff and volunteers until a family member arrives to pick them up. If assistance is needed, contact Lakeside Safety Services at (419) 635-6030.
Wristbands
Wristbands are strongly recommended for children ages 10 & under. They are available at the Administration Office, South Gate, Fifth Street Gate, Rhein Center, Fountain Inn and Hotel Lakeside. Write a parent’s phone number on the wristband, or have a parent accompany the child during the Bike Parade.
Admission to Lakeside for the Bike Parade
Guests who do not already have a Daily, Weekly or Season Chautauqua Pass may request a complimentary two-hour Fourth of July Parade Pass to view the Bike and Float Parades inside the Lakeside gates. Parking is an additional fee. Please note that the Bike Parade can only be viewed from Lakeside.
Fourth of July Float Parade
- Date: Saturday, July 4
- Start Time: 9:30 a.m.
- Starting Location: James Park in Marblehead
- Ending Location: West side of Lakeside at the Second Street Gate
- Bike Parade begins at 10 a.m. in Lakeside
Following the Bike Parade, the Float Parade continues through Lakeside, featuring creatively decorated floats, golf carts, antique cars, community groups and local organizations. Please note that electric bikes and electric scooters are NOT permitted in either parade.
Grand Marshal
This year’s honorary Grand Marshal is 100-year-old Lakesider Mae Drage. Since celebrating her milestone birthday on April 30, Drage has attended four birthday celebrations in her honor and will be recognized once again on July 4. An active member of the Lakeside community, Drage attends Women’s Club meetings, Chair Yoga, Lakeside Fit classes, lectures and Hoover Auditorium performances. She credits her longevity to maintaining a positive outlook, staying active and spending time with family and friends. Having enjoyed many Fourth of July parades through the years, she is looking forward to waving to Lakesiders of all ages.
Parade Route
The approximately two-mile parade begins at James Park in Marblehead, travels west on Prairie Street, turns left onto Stone Street, right onto Elliott Street and continues along Harsh Road before entering Lakeside through the East Second Street Gate and exiting through the West Second Street Gate. Water stations will be available in James Park and near Lakeside’s East Second Street Gate.
Where to Watch
Spectators are invited to gather anywhere along the parade route. Popular viewing locations include:
- James Park for the parade kickoff
- Harsh Road for expanded viewing space and easy access
- Second Street in Lakeside for a classic parade experience
Bring a lawn chair, gather with family and friends, and celebrate America 250 together.
Guests who do not already have a Daily, Weekly or Season Chautauqua Pass may request a complimentary two-hour Fourth of July Parade Pass to view the Bike and Float Parades inside the Lakeside gates. Parking is an additional fee.
Parking & Arrival
Guests are encouraged to arrive early, as streets along the parade route will begin closing before the 9:30 a.m. start. Walking or biking to viewing areas is recommended when possible. Parking is available at Lakeside’s South Gate Parking Lot, Danbury School Lot and within the Lakeside gates. A parking pass is required for all three locations. Parking is also available at the Biro and Danbury Senior Center parking lots in Marblehead, free of charge, with a shuttle to Lakeside.
Be Part of the Float Parade
Community members, families, vacationers, businesses and organizations from across the peninsula are invited to participate. Eligible entries include floats, golf carts, bicycles, vehicles, walking groups and community organizations.
Registration is free, but advance registration is required by June 26. REGISTER NOW! Parade participants are encouraged to embrace the spirit of America 250 with patriotic and creative entries suitable for all ages. Float entries will be reviewed to ensure a family-friendly experience. Entries that do not align with this standard may not be accepted. Floats containing political content or offensive subject matter will not be permitted.
