CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Carmichael’s July 4 parade and fireworks celebration occur on separate days this year.

On Saturday, July 2, a pyrotechnic show will light up La Sierra Community Center. Tom Petty tribute band Great Wide Open kicks off at 7 pm as warm-up entertainment.

The event will also host a free kids zone with crafts, inflatables and face-painting. Rockets and the 1812 Overture thunder at 9:30 pm. Organizers recommend that pets should be left at home. No private fireworks are permitted. A beer garden will offer libation.

Carmichael’s famous Independence parade is set for Monday, July 4. The procession covers two miles of hot tar between Marconi and Cypress Avenues. A community tradition since 1959, the celebrations is orchestrated by Carmichael Elks. 

District 3 Supervisor Rich Desmond is Grand Marshal this year. According to Elks Secretary Jim Warrick, the VIP personifies this year’s We the People theme. “Desmond has built his life on caring about people,” Warrick explains. “He was a CHP officer who ran for office to serve his community.”

The Grand Marshal’s red vintage Mustang convertible will roll out at 10:30 am. A Sons of the American Revolution color guard marches in advance. On foot or floats, 600 patriots will join the fray.

Fair Oaks Boulevard will close to traffic from 10 am till noon. Thousands of spectators traditionally line the parade route; biggest crowds accumulate near Carmichael Park corner. At the park clubhouse, Carmichael Kiwanis will fortify all comers with $5 pancake breakfasts.

The parade leads many to the Elks Lodge, where dancing, barbecue lunches and swimming are offered. The lodge is located at 5631 Cypress Avenue. La Sierra Center is at 5325 Engle Road. Carmichael Park Clubhouse is at 5750 Grant Avenue.