Families with young children gathered at Veterans' Memorial Park on Independence Day morning to march in the annual kiddie parade that has become a Fourth of July tradition in Hollister.  

Toddlers, children, and costumed dogs were pulled in wagons or pedaled their own bicycles, decorated with streamers, flags and all manner of bling in red, white, and blue. Instead of lining the streets to watch, the families and other supporters also walked the short parade route to Marguerite Maze Middle School.  

The parade was led by organizer Gerry Wright, accompanied by other community volunteers dressed as Dolly Madison and Uncle Sam.  Youth from Summer Band Camp provided marching tunes along the way and at the end of the parade route. At Maze, participants gathered to listen to some patriotic words from Hollister Mayor Ignacio Velazquez, before dispersing to enjoy drinks and snacks and continuing with their own family celebrations.