Laguna Beach Patriots Day Parade: A Beloved Coastal Tradition

The Laguna Beach Patriots Day Parade is one of the most beloved annual traditions in Laguna Beach, bringing the community together every March for a patriotic celebration in the heart of downtown. For nearly six decades, residents and visitors have gathered to watch marching bands, vintage vehicles, local organizations, and community groups make their way through the city’s iconic streets!

The parade route runs through some of the most recognizable areas of Laguna Beach. It typically begins near Laguna Beach High School, travels along Park Avenue, down Glenneyre Street, and to Forest Avenue, where crowds line the sidewalks cheering and waving as floats and participants pass through downtown then ends at Laguna Beach City Hall.

Since it first began in 1967, the Laguna Beach Patriots Day Parade has grown into one of the city’s most cherished community events. It brings together local schools, nonprofit organizations, veterans groups, businesses, and civic leaders—including groups like the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce and the Laguna Beach Police Department—all celebrating the strong sense of community that makes Laguna Beach special!

For me, the parade holds some personal memories as well. When I was a kid, my grandpa volunteered with the Laguna Beach Police Department. One year I had the opportunity to ride shotgun with him in the police K-9 cruiser as we drove along the parade route. I remember being incredibly shy at first, barely able to wave to anyone in the crowd. It wasn’t until the final stretch of the route that I finally worked up the courage to wave back.

Years later, when I first moved to Laguna Beach during high school, I experienced the parade from the other side—watching it with friends along the route and enjoying the energy that fills the streets.

This year felt especially meaningful! The 2026 parade theme celebrated America’s 250th anniversary, marking 250 years since the United States was established as a nation. The atmosphere along the streets was full of excitement, pride, and community spirit!

But this year, instead of watching from the sidelines, I had the opportunity to participate.

Last Saturday I joined the parade with the Laguna Beach Chamber of Commerce, and it was a fantastic experience! The energy throughout downtown Laguna Beach was incredible!! People were smiling, cheering, and clearly excited to be part of the celebration.

It was a great day. I chatted with spectators, met new people, and made new friends! Though, What does the Chamber of Commerce do?

The answer is simple—support local businesses and strengthen the community!!

In Laguna Beach, that means encouraging people to eat local, shop local, support local businesses, and help protect our beautiful coastline and beaches! It’s about supporting the small businesses and community organizations that help make Laguna Beach such a special place to live and visit.

Being part of the Laguna Beach Patriots Day Parade this year reminded me why traditions like this matter. They bring neighbors together, celebrate local pride, and create memories that last for generations.

I’m grateful to the Chamber for the opportunity to participate this year—and I’m already looking forward to next year’s parade!

When Is the Laguna Beach Patriots Day Parade?

The Laguna Beach Patriots Day Parade takes place each year in early March in downtown Laguna Beach. The parade route typically runs through Downtown and has been a community tradition since 1967, drawing thousands of residents and visitors annually.

About the Author

Gerson Seise is a Laguna Beach REALTOR® and founder of GERSON SEISE REALTY - Real Brokerage Technologies. Through his blog The GSR Collective, he shares stories about Laguna Beach traditions, local businesses, and community events that make this coastal town unique.

— Gerson

Written by Gerson Seise REALTOR®  Cell: 949.533.7053
GERSON SEISE REALTY - Real Brokerage Technologies