Towson Fourth Of July Parade To Bring Thousands Downtown

TOWSON, MD — The Towson Chamber of Commerce has announced plans for the Fourth of July Parade. The parade has been in existence for more than 120 years, according to the chamber, which coordinates the event.

Last year's parade drew more than 60,000 people, and the chamber anticipates even more people will be coming to the 2018 parade.

The July 4 parade will begin at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 4, at the intersection of Towsontown and Bosley Avenue and will continue down Bosley, Allegheny and Washington avenues. Parking will be $5.

Several festivities are planned:

• 8:30 a.m.: 4 on 4th Race (4-mile run around the parade route and Towson University) and 1776-foot fun run
• 9:30 a.m. Bike rush in Towson University lot across from Marriott
• 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Fourth of July parade

This year marks the 124th annual Towson Fourth of July Parade. Maryland's First Lady Yumi Hogan will be among the participants. Local dance groups, fire trucks, marching bands, antique vehicles, costumed characters and floats are also among the attractions.

Some highlights people can expect to see are as follows, according to the Towson Chamber of Commerce:

• Smokey the Bear and James and Dolly Madison
• Baltimore Marching Ravens
• Calvert Hall Marching Band
• Carolina Gold

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It costs $30,000 to put together the annual parade, which comes through donations from local organizations and businesses.

Anyone who would like to support the parade may donate online or send contributions to the Towson Chamber of Commerce, 44 West Chesapeake Avenue, Towson, MD 21204.

Photo courtesy of Towson Chamber of Commerce/Towson 4th of July Parade.