The 4th of July Parade is one of the largest events of the summer and a community favorite! Don your red, white, and blue, and help us celebrate Independence Day at this family-friendly event! What a great connection between Main Street and the City of Ames! The parade will begin at 11:00am.

The 2025 theme is "Stars, Stripes, and Summertime" and all entries will be encouraged to join in the spirit of the theme!

Parade judges will be stationed at Tom Evans Park. Each parade entry will be judged on their Patriotic Spirit, Creativity, Community Involvement, Entertainment Value and Overall Presentation. The top entry will win a trophy and a complimentary entry in the 2026 Downtown Ames 4th of July Parade at the FRONT of the parade (following the Grand Marshall).

Parade Route