On July 5, the Homer Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center announced the winners in this year’s Fourth of July Parade. The theme this year was “Seas the Day – Celebrating Homer’s Maritime History.” The U.S. Coast Guard were the parade’s Grand Marshals in honor of Homer’s recent designation as an official Coast Guard City.

There were 51 entries for this year’s parade which is the highest amount ever according to Jessica Moore, HCOC Events Coordinator. She also said this was the highest number of first-time parade entries. The large turnout of spectators was also an all-time high. The earlier start time of 3 p.m. seemed to be a positive change for this year’s parade.

The winning entries will receive either $75 or $50 in Homer Bucks depending upon the category.

Here are the 2023 winning entries:

Best of Show: Burnin Love-Burning Basket, $75

Best Use of Theme: Homer Senior Center, $75

Best Car/Truck/Machinery: Freedom Jeep, $50

Best Use of Animals: Trail Blazers, $50

Best Children’s Group: Homer Glacier Kings, $75

Red Lantern Award: American Legion, $50

Judges Favorite: Naughtycal Dreams Offshore Adventures , $75

Information was provided to the Homer News from Brad Anderson, Executive Director with Homer Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center.

The Homer Glacier Kings’ float, which won a prize as the Best Children’s Group, travels down Pioneer Avenue during the “Seas the Day” Fourth of July parade on Tuesday, July 4, 2023 in Homer, Alaska. (Delcenia Cosman/Homer News)