RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - After COVID-19 pulled a direct halt to last year’s 4th of July Parade, Rancho Cordova residents were more than ready to see the return of the traditional procession celebrating the country’s birthday taking place Saturday, July 3.

“It’s a sense of normalcy,” said Desiree Richardson watching the parade on its 1 ½ mile trek down Coloma Road with her husband and kids. “It’s nice to get outside and spend time with the family”.

Even though California has begun its reopening, the city still was one of the few in the region holding holiday festivities (which were organized by the Cordova Community Council and sponsored by the city). The parade featured 60 participants including the world-famous Budweiser Clydesdale Horses, Mexican Dancing Horses plus local governmental, law enforcement, recreational, religious and veterans organizations amongst others. Six marching bands kept the toes a tapping including one from Cordova High School.

After the performance of the National Anthem by Michelle Honor, the parade (the 36th year of) kicked off by siren blaring city police on motorcycles, a Sac Metro firetruck and Mills Fire District fire engine with Rancho Cordovan of the Year, Rod Borba, as Grand Marshal, followed closely by the chauffeured City Council and other city employees. On footstep was Mayor Garrett Gatewood in a big 4th of July themed hat passing out candy to parade goers lining Coloma.

These All-America City heroes were backed up by a team-up of “superheroes” as Captain America and Spiderman mixed with Superman and Wonder Woman (and many other characters) much to the excitement of the crowd. When asked which city Supes preferred - his hometown of Metropolis or Rancho Cordova - the man in the big red cape chose the latter. And if he had indeed taken to the skies, he would have had to watch out for the thrilling close flyover by a Sac Metro helicopter.

While not the hottest day recorded for past parades, many still huddled under tents and umbrellas to keep out of the sun’s direct rays. Staying cool and hydrated was a running theme throughout the parade, as some participants shot water guns at the crowds or passed out water bottles. The group on the Capitol City Towing Truck were even submerged in inflatable pools of water.

While the parade featured all the hallmarks one would expect of an event of its kind, some unconventional participants threw in a few surprises. The Heartstoppers Haunted House ensemble dressed up as zombies and other ghoulish figures and a remarkable Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory float by the Harmer Family wowed onlookers.

The parade ended at Hagan Park and the crowd dispersed to continue their weekend celebrations. Riding on a bicycle with her friends’ kids, resident Becky Thill bedecked in her best patriotic finery (including a tutu) exclaimed “I’m so inspired that Rancho does so much!”