The University of California, Riverside Pipe Band returns to highlight the Idyllwild Independence Day Parade — for what is a parade without a band? And now, the always thrilling sound of bagpipes and drums will echo throughout the downtown village core as the parade makes its way down North Circle.
Photo by Cheryl Bayse

Idyllwild’s Fourth of July celebrations begin with the 53rd-annual parade sponsored by the Idyllwild Rotary Club for the 16th year. This classic small-town parade, large on substance, will originate from Fern Valley Corners and proceed to the town center at 10 a.m. with more than 75 participants. Organizers suggest viewers pack breakfast, park and set up seating early along North Circle Drive.

Parade organizers appreciate public cooperation on road closures that go into effect at 9 a.m. beginning with North Circle Drive at Highway 243 all the way up to South Circle Drive (Fern Valley Corners) and include staging areas on:

• Lower Tahquitz at lower South Circle drives

• Upper South Circle at upper Tahquitz drives

• Pine Crest (middle) Avenue from Alderwood Street up to North Circle Drive

• Jameson Drive from Fir Street up to Pine Crest Avenue

• South Circle from upper Tahquitz to North Circle drives

Fireworks are prohibited on the mountain due to extreme fire danger, but there are plenty of other ways to have fun in Idyllwild.

The summer concert series kicks off at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 5, with the Big Band Staff led by Ken Dahleen on the newly located stage at the end of the Brewpub parking lot.

The July 5th Brewpub Summer Concert After Party will headline Pentagrams and Daisies for a second year. Beer and cocktail specials are queued up, dining will be open until 10 p.m., and dancing is free.

Pre-Fourth, the American Legion hosts a deep pit barbecue at Post 800 from 3 to 7 p.m. Saturday, June 30 followed by karaoke with Kathy Blair from 7 to 11 p.m.

Follow the Arts & Entertainment Calendar in the Town Crier for events occurring around the holiday.