Crowds Dress Like Art For Historic Pageant Parade In Laguna: Photos

LAGUNA BEACH, CA — Art lovers of Laguna Beach gathered in costume for a historic parade celebrating the 90th anniversary of Pageant of the Masters during the Pageant Parade and Party on Saturday, July 22.

The celebration marked 90 years of "standing still" and included hundreds of art-lovers of all ages dressed up in costume as their favorite artwork or artist.

Residents commemorated the event in a sidewalk parade throughout downtown Laguna Beach, which concluded at the Festival of Arts grounds for a celebration with contests, cash prizes, photo-ops, face painting, awards and more.

Some notable art recreations at the Pageant Parade and Party included "The Mona Lisa," "The Starry Night," "Blue Boy," "Pinkie," and event the entire Pageant cast of Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper."

According to organizers, the parade was inspired by the very first parade of living pictures in 1933, known then as the "Spirit of the Masters."

“The Pageant Parade and Party truly encapsulated the spirit of camaraderie and artistic expression, uniting the local community and visitors alike,” Marketing/PR Director Sharbie Higuchi told Patch. Higuchi attended the celebration dressed in costume as artist Frida Kahlo.

“We extend our heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to all who contributed to make this event possible; special thanks goes to Laguna Beach City Staff, including Cultural Arts Manager Siân Poeschl, Arts Program Coordinator Mike McGregor, Director of Transit Michael Litschi, the Police Department, and Public Works. A huge thank you also goes out to Festival and Pageant staff and all of our dedicated Pageant volunteers.”

During the post-parade celebration, residents enjoyed a costume contest that allowed contestants to showcase their impressive and meticulously crafted outfits.

Taking the first place prize of $250 was a group representation of "Piet Mondrian" by Jessica Simrell, Loreelai Pohl and Jessica Mason.

The second place prize of $100 was awarded to a portrayal of Vincent Van Gogh by Sue Siehmer, while the $50 third place prize was awarded to an interpretation of Leonardo da Vinci's portrait "Lady with an Ermine" re-created by Rome Fiore.