The streets of Kenai came alive with red, white, and blue on Friday as residents and visitors gathered to celebrate America’s independence during the city’s 4th of July Parade and festivities. Hosted by the Kenai Chamber of Commerce, the annual event brought together families, local organizations, and community members for a day of pride, unity, and celebration.
Led by the Kenai Police Department, the parade featured a colorful and creative array of floats, classic cars, and enthusiastic participants. Spectators lined the route from Trading Bay Road to the ballfield lot, waving flags and cheering on their favorite entries.
After the parade, the celebration continued with various festivities, including local food trucks, vendors, live music, kids’ carnival games, and a beer garden.
This year’s parade entries competed in four categories: Commercial/Business, Organization, Youth/School, and Individual.
Judges evaluated entries based on creativity, spirit, and the patriotic theme. Out of 57 entries, the following are the 2025 winners:
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Best Commercial/Business: Airport Equipment Rentals
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Best Organization: Kenai Soldotna Shrine Club
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Best Youth/School: Forever Dance Alaska
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Best Individual: John Krause
“We had so many people that volunteered from the judges to the announcers to sound to people just watching booths.” Samantha Springer, Executive Director of the Kenai Chamber of Commerce, expressed her gratitude to everyone who made the event possible. “We definitely couldn’t have got it done without all the people that helped.”
