For the Islander
The 2023 4th of July Holiday in Avalon themed – Green Island in a Blue Ocean: Creating a Sustainable Future for Avalon – celebrated the birth of the nation as well as the Island’s beautiful natural environment.
The City partnered with Avalon Environmental Services (CR&R) to spread the word about new recycling regulations in Avalon, the importance of recycling in our community and how reusing and reducing waste can help extend the life of the Pebbly Beach Landfill.
The 4th of July Parade was kicked off by Roger Connelly singing the National Anthem, and was led by Grand Marshal – Tony Zeiller, aka Mr. Tony. Residents and many visitors have all observed Mr. Tony caring for Avalon daily – sweeping streets, removing trash from parks, etc. The parade featured a 3 year high 64 golf carts and floats including the Catalina Island Conservancy, Island Company and many family displays. Trophies were awarded for Best Use of Recyclable Materials (1st Place – Catalina Island Medical Center, 2nd Place – “Trash to Treasure”, 3rd Place – The Rad Family), Most Sustainable Float (Catalina Island Conservancy), Most Patriotic (Gilmore Girls), and Best of Parade (The Comstock Family).
A home decoration contest was conducted with the 1st Place going to 333 Sumner, 2nd Place to 337 Sumner and 3rd Place to 123 Viedelou.
The 2023 celebration also welcomed back the Spirit of Troy, USC Marching Band. The band kicked off the two day celebration with a concert on Wrigley Stage on July 3. The 90-minute concert featured many contemporary hits and set the bar for the slate of the festivities ahead. The band performed many more times throughout the weekend, including at local restaurants, along Front Street, on private boats and even on the newly renovated Green Pleasure Pier.
Live music was provided on Wrigley Stage throughout the Fourth and included local bands Undercover, Grupo Proyecto, and The Islenos. New this year, the USC Marching Band returned to Wrigley Stage for one final performance before Garden State Fireworks, with the support of Curtin Maritime, provided a stunning 30 minute fireworks display over Avalon Harbor.
Avalon remains one of the most beautiful and fun places to celebrate the 4th of July.
Special thanks to the community for their participation, City Staff for their hard work in the endeavor, and all of the event’s sponsors and supporters.
Though the 4th is over, the summer fun has just begun in Avalon. There is something going on every day of the week throughout the end of July including – Beach Day Mondays, Beach Bingo Tuesdays, Fishing Derby and Movie on the Beach Wednesdays, Beach Bingo Thursdays, Fitness Fridays, Art in the Park Saturdays, and Wellness Sundays. More information about all of our events and offerings can be found on the City’s website: www.CityofAvalon.com.
