Thanks to Murfey Construction, the 36th installment of the iconic Beaumont Street Fourth of July parade in Bird Rock will go on as planned this year, with a new Western theme and live entertainment.
“Howdy Partners! Saddle Up and Parade Down Beaumont” will kick off with registration at 9:15 a.m. on the Fourth, with a shotgun start at 10 a.m.
“The Fourth of July parade is one of the things that defines this neighborhood,” said Scott and Russ Murfey, sons of Barbara and Buddy Murfey, who originated the Bird Rock neighborhood Independence Day parade in 1980. “There was simply no way we were going to stand by and allow it not to take place. For us, there is the obvious personal connection to the parade, but more importantly is what it means to the community as a whole.”
For decades, La Jollans have gathered alongside Bird Rockers to enjoy their homespun, small-town parade along Beaumont Avenue, with its scores of bikes and small floats traversing the streets. The parade initially consisted of just a few Bird Rock families. But over the years, it has morphed into a major local event, drawing nearly 5,000 participants.
Murfey Construction stepped in at the eleventh hour to save the parade, which had actually been canceled because the usual organizers will be out of town that holiday weekend.
The Murfeys added that the parade will have kids’ activities and cash prizes for best floats: $500 for first place, $300 for second and $200 for third.
“We’ve been overwhelmed by the feedback we’ve received from the community and how happy people are that the parade is happening this year,” said Russ Murfey. “Each day, I’m receiving numerous emails from people telling me how important this parade is to their families, some of whom participated in the first years when my parents started it. It means so much to carry on that legacy for another year and continue to share this special day with my own family.”
Volunteers and donations are still needed for the parade. People interested in lending support can go to gofundme.com/birdrockparade to donate online. For more information, email [email protected].
