The heat did not stop the community from coming out to enjoy another successful Parade of Champions.
As in years past, the event featured marching bands from all over California as well as a strong showing from local community groups. All of the participants worked their way down Monroe Street on Oct. 5, entertaining the crowds.
Three of the Santa Clara Unified School District high schools took part in the festivities. The MacDonald High School flag football team rode one of the floats in the parade. This is the first year MacDonald High has fielded a team in the new CCS sport of flag football.
Santa Clara High School’s Spirit Squad also marched.
The father and son duo of Rod Diridon Sr. and Rod Diridon Jr. served as the grand marshals in this year’s parade.
Also honored was Santa Clara native and newly crowned Miss California Kimberly Vernon. She has participated in several Parade of Champions over the years.
While the parade was the main event, there were other highlights as well. The community village was a big hit with attendees.
Not only did the parade sponsors take part, but so did local nonprofit organizations like the South Bay Historic Railroad Society and the California Sikhs, who taught turban tying.
This year’s event also featured a beer and wine fundraiser to support the Parade of Champions’ charitable initiatives. The featured wine was from Slo de Vie, a winery in Grover Beach, just south of Pismo Beach.
And, of course, there was food. Local favorites like Lillie Mae’s and Portuguese Tasty Desserts were just a few of the foods featured at the event.
This was the 55th Parade of Champions. Next year’s event will take place on Oct. 4, 2025.
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