Large crowds turn out for South Lake Tahoe 4th of July Parade

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Thousands of people decked out in their red, white and blue lined the parade route in South Lake Tahoe Thursday to celebrate the 4th of July.

Not only were record-breaking crowds watching the fifth year of the parade there was also the largest number of entries in the parade itself with 300 walkers, 80 entries including the City of South Lake Tahoe's 20-foot eagle balloon.

“We had so many entrants from all different parts of the community come out to show their support from dancers to local bands, to a spin class float, South Lake Tahoe showed us they were putting their best foot forward to celebrate Independence Day," said Chris Fiore, Communications Manager for the City of South Lake Tahoe.

The City also introduced their first Food Truck Park at Bijou Park after the parade and lines of people enjoyed the choices from gourmet popsicles to BBQ. All of the vendors gave a portion of their proceeds to the local American Legion. In the past the City bought all of the supplies and food for a barbeque after the parade, giving the Legion 100 percent of the proceeds, close to $2,000.

Community partners also contributed to the success of this years parade, especially the Soroptimist International of South Lake Tahoe.

“We want to thank everyone who donated their time and energy to making this parade a success,” added Fiore. "We couldn’t have done it without the community support, and we look forward to seeing everyone at next years parade!”