Residents are welcome to apply to march in the parade; deadline to apply is June 29
The July 4 Patriotic Parade in New Braunfels is all about star power. Not only is it a dazzling display of the stars and stripes, but it’s also an opportunity for locals to step into the spotlight and be a part of the annual parade.
This summer tradition brings a procession of flag-waving scout troops, kids on bicycles, families on decorated golf carts and classic cars to downtown New Braunfels each year.
Those ready for their star turn can apply to be a part of the parade here. The deadline to apply is June 29.
“If you’ve ever wanted to be in a parade, this is your chance,” said Jennifer Singleterry, executive director of the Sophienburg Museum & Archives, which organizes the event each year in coordination with the City of New Braunfels and the Parks and Recreation Department. “We consider this parade to be a gift to the city of New Braunfels, and it’s one that the whole community can get involved in.”
The parade starts at 9:15 a.m. at Castell Avenue and Bridge Street, then follows a route around Main Plaza before ending at Seguin Avenue and Zink Street. Spectators are encouraged to dress in their patriotic best and bring chairs to enjoy the festivities. The New Braunfels Community Band will provide music throughout the event, with a short program of patriotic songs following the parade at the plaza pavilion.
One of Singleterry’s favorite parade attractions is an example of history on wheels. Led by patriarch Fred Fey, the Fey family enters the parade each year with their vintage Model T car pulling an old-timey calliope, a musical instrument that produces a distinctive sound by forcing air through large locomotive-style whistles.
Not every participant takes it to that level, but most lavishly decorate their bicycles, vehicles, horses or themselves in patriotic finery.
“You can’t believe how much red, white and blue can emanate from a golf cart,” Singleterry said.
As New Braunfels continues to grow, so does the number of participants and spectators in the parade. But the feeling of tradition and community surrounding the event is something that its organizers plan to preserve.
“When the band plays and the parade begins, it’s such a feeling of nostalgia,” Singleterry said. “It’s this one time when we come together to celebrate that which makes us one.”
New Braunfels has celebrated the holiday ever since Texas became a state in 1846. That summer, New Braunfels residents, many of whom emigrated from Germany, were proud to celebrate their first Independence Day as U.S. residents and engaged in two full days of cannon fire, flag-raising, shooting competitions and other festivities.
The city’s current July 4 celebrations first took shape in 1895, when city officials installed a fountain in the city’s oval-shaped central plaza (they also added a curb to keep residents from watering their horses in the fountain). More than a hundred years later, Main Plaza, which is on the National Registry of Historic Places, remains the heart of the annual celebration.
Experience the charm of New Braunfels as you celebrate America's birthday with a delightful mix of community spirit, vibrant culture, and nostalgic fun #InNewBraunfels! Plan an unforgettable July 4th weekend celebration by visiting VisitNBTX.com – your ultimate resource for booking accommodations, exploring local attractions, and enjoying exciting activities. Make this year's celebration truly memorable in New Braunfels!
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