Monterey city officials unveil July 4th plans

The City of Monterey, the Old Monterey Business Association and the Monterey County Pops! has planned a full day of festivities on July 4.

Representatives of each entity held a news conference Friday morning to detail the events.

PARADE – 10 a.m.

The annual Fourth of July Parade will depart from Pearl Street and proceeds down Alvarado Street, followed by a left onto Del Monte Avenue and left again on Calle Principal.

Big Little Backyard BBQ & Entertainment Extravaganza– 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

At the grounds of Colton Hall on Pacific Street, there will be non-stop live music on two stages. Bands include the Monterey Community Band at 11 a.m., Michael Jackson tribute band Foreverland at noon, blues ensemble Red Beans and Rice at 1:30 p.m. and at 3 p.m., Lovefool, a San Francisco-based band billed as “the Bay Area’s finest party band.”

Children’s entertainment will include free carnival booths and games, face painting, jump houses and balloon artists.

The events are dog and alcohol free. Food will be for sale by nonprofit food vendors but attendees may also bring their own.

The Pops! Celebrates Freedom! Patriotic Concert – 7:00 p.m.

The Monterey County Pops! will host a free patriotic concert and multi-media extravaganza at the Golden State Theater at 417 Alvarado St. Live music will be performed by the Monterey County Pops! Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis, with doors opening at 6:00 p.m.

For updates and schedules about Monterey’s July 4th celebration, visit www.monterey.org/july4th