San Francisco’s Only Fourth Of July Parade This Monday

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Time to pull out your red, white and blue outfits — and fluorescent vests too.

The New Mission Terrace Improvement Association's annual Fourth of July Parade will take the streets on Monday. But this time with a theme of pedestrian safety.

“We've seen a dramatic increase in reckless and irresponsible driving along our San Jose Avenue corridor and unfortunately heard too many stories about neighbors being hit or almost hit by cars,” event co-organizer Lisa Dunseth said. “We drew attention to this issue with our Valentine's Day Walk in order to highlight the issue and to remind drivers to ‘have a heart’ when they drive.”

For over 30 years, the event has drawn hundreds of neighbors, their families and friends to follow a ladder truck from San Francisco Fire Department Station 15 in a festive march around the neighborhood.

The grand marshal, who hasn’t been named at press time, will ride with the firefighters and lead the crowd of children on trikes and bikes, dogs with their humans and all other participants.

“Decorate the kids, your dogs, your houses and yourselves,” according to the announcement. “Make a sign or bring a banner. And don't forget to wave as you walk by.”

The 30 – 40 minute walk will end at Balboa Park where Rollo The Clown will entertain children.

Parade-goers are encouraged to Bring their own picnic lunches and NMTIA will provide drinks.

“It's a safe way to socialize, have fun and meet your neighbors both old and new,” Dunseth said. “Tell your friends and see you there!”

The event is sponsored by NMTIA, the Ocean View-Merced Heights-Ingleside Cultural Participation Project, Excelsior Action Group, Excelsior Collaborative and Roxie's Food Center.