There is one all-island parade here on Whidbey Island and it is the Island County Fair Parade! I love this parade and the involvement of the community in its presentation.

Another unique aspect of the fair parade is that there is a chance to win beautiful ribbons, it is after all a county fair! Entrants are judged according to the American system of judging which ranks exhibits against one another and awards one first place, one second place, etc., in each division.

The divisions are the usual “marching unit with animal” or “antique or classic cars.” Then there are the little-entered divisions of “family unit,” “ugly truck” or “commercial float.” As exciting as it is participate in, the parade is fun to watch as there is a front seat for everyone. The parade route is approximately 1.5 miles long and is along the water in Langley and into the fairgrounds and past the Eva Mae Gabelein Midway Stage where Jim Freeman will announce the participants.They are judged at this time as well. The parade is at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 20, and the ribbon announcement takes place at 1 p.m. on the above mentioned stage. Enter by Aug. 17 to be in the running for the ribbons. For more information go to www.islandcountyfair.com Hope to “See Ewe There!”

Carol Gannaway
Parade superintendent