Update April 29th, 2023: See images from the 82nd Avenue of Roses Parade

The 17th Annual 82nd Avenue of Roses Parade returns on Saturday, April 29th. Festivities begin at 9:30 a.m. with participants embarking from Eastport Plaza at Bush Street, heading north on 82nd Avenue towards Yamhill Street. Spectators will line the streets to watch the various groups walk, dance, or drive down the road. Those looking to participate can register to walk with a group or volunteer as a traffic monitor.

What had started as a small parade in 2007 grew into a significant community event over the years, taking a break during the pandemic. After a few years off, it is back with KPTV’s Joe Vithayathil (Joe V) as the Grand Marshal. Some featured participants include The Lee’s Association Dragon and Lion Dance, Last Regiment of Syncopated Drummers, and The Beat Goes On. The Royal Rosarians are joined by The Friesian Horses from Washington heading north on 82nd Avenue. Not all cars are moving in the parade. Collectors from the Classic Car Club will display their best vehicles at the Cruise-In hosted by Gary Small SAAB, 1940 SE 82nd Avenue.

Event organizers explained that working on the parade is how they show their appreciation of community art, music, and dance by celebrating the diverse population that defines 82nd Avenue. People looking for a front-row seat can volunteer as parade traffic monitors. One or two volunteers control every crossing along the 82nd Avenue route, and staff coordinators still need many intersections covered. Interested people can signup online at https://bit.ly/82Roses or by emailing 82RosesParadeVolunteer@gmail.com, and the 82 Roses Community Enrichment Coalition invites everyone to view the parade on April 29th.

By

Jacob Loeb