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Carmichael Times

Reign on, Carmichael Parade

Jun 23, 2026 09:28AM ● By Susan Maxwell Skinner, photos by Susan Maxwell Skinner

Daughters of the American Revolution’s John Sutter Chapter will present a float celebrating “America 250” during the Carmichael Elks July 4 Parade.


CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Without its civic fireworks display for the second year, Carmichael community patriotism will nevertheless fire up for America’s 250th anniversary on July 4. 

Carmichael Park District again cancelled the Red White and Blue fireworks celebration to prevent damage to new turf at the La Sierra Community Center. A bumper fireworks event will return to the site next year.

Those who enjoy celebrating with a bang may cross the river for a two-day bash hosted by the City of Rancho Cordova. The Hagan Park party includes a parade, carnival rides, concerts and fireworks on July 3 and 4. Admission to the event is $10 at the gate. Parking is $10.

Alternately, Carmichael’s Crossroads Church promises “the biggest little fireworks show in town” on Sunday, June 28. Located at 7100 Fair Oaks Blvd., the church will provide free pyrotechnics.

“We celebrate our freedom as a nation; and our freedom to worship,” said Pastor Matt Potratz.

Rockets blast off in the church parking area after sunset. Anyone may attend.

Six days later, dawn’s early light will hail an army of patriots and floats assembling at the corner of Palm Drive and Fair Oaks Boulevard. With a “Celebrating American Providence” banner, the Carmichael Elks 66th parade will hit the street at 10:30 am. Community leader Rosie Buck is Grand Marshal.  

“Rosie’s been shaping positive spirit in the community for years,” said event organizer Jim Warrick. “Her dedication to Carmichael makes her a great American.”

Mom and businesswoman Rosie Buck is a three-term Carmichael Chamber of Commerce President, a Carmichael Parks Foundation leader and the 7th Assembly District’s 2025 Woman of the Year. The impactful fundraiser has co-sponsored countless Carmichael events through her family business, Buck Automotive.

“My family and I rode in a pink Barbie-mobile last year,” said Buck. “This year, we get a Mustang convertible. Being Grand Marshall in our nation’s 250th year is the honor of a lifetime. My husband and our son Archer will be dressed up super-patriotic. We can hardly wait.”


Parade Grand Marshal, community leader Rosie Buck, will lead the July 4 Parade. Husband Jeff Buck and son Archer (8) will ride shotgun.


Behind whooping fire trucks, Sacramento Sheriff's Posse riders will lead the July 4 procession.  After the Grand Marshal, more than 100 units will follow. Go-Karts, classic cars, floats, bicycles, Keystone Kops, politicians and clowns will strut patriotic stuff from Marconi to Cypress Avenue. El Camino High School band will provide music. Del Campo High School will field a mighty vanguard of athletes and cheerleaders. 

Fair Oaks Boulevard closes from 10 a.m. till noon for the procession. Spectators applaud from sidewalks; thickest crowds gather at Carmichael Park. In the park clubhouse, Kiwanis Club volunteers will fortify patriots with $5 pancake breakfasts from 7 to 11 a.m.

All roads lead to Carmichael Elks Lodge. Here, live bands, barbecue lunches and swimming are offered. The Lodge is located at 5631 Cypress Ave.

Parade sponsors include: Carmichael Improvement District, Kovar's Karate, All Stage Canine, Carmichael Chamber of Commerce, Almond Orchard Dental, Kiwanis Club, Carmichael Elks Lodge, Victory Christian School, Sons of the American Revolution, St John the Evangelist School, Carmichael Water District, Ron Greenwood, Martin Ross, Blain Stumpf Fencing, Daughters of the American Revolution, the Carmichael Times and John's Liquor.