Revelry ahead: Monroe Fair Days Parade hits Main Street Saturday

To kick off the opening weekend of the Evergreen State Fair, local residents and more 60 businesses, organizations, associations and groups will be marching together down the streets of Monroe on Saturday, Aug. 27, to exhibit the fervent pride they hold for their city during the 79th annual Monroe Fair Days Parade.

Dating back to 1937, this is an event that continuously demonstrates the deep-rooted sense of community that exists in Monroe.

"Every year our parade is highly anticipated by both children and adults alike, due to the different variety of businesses that showcase what they offer to the community,GÇ¥ said Monroe Chamber of Commerce president Mike Buse. "It's just great, free, family-friendly fun that kicks off the start of the Evergreen State Fair.GÇ¥

Among the many appearances and performances, attendees can expect to see the Monroe High School cheerleaders, the Drift and Drag Cars from Evergreen Speedway, the Seafair Pirates, Smokey the Bear, the Boys and Girls Club, the Ronald McDonald House, various equestrian teams and multiple Seattle Disney princesses.

The parade commences at 11 a.m., rolling down Main Street from 178th Avenue Southeast to North Blakely Street. The parade is taking off from a new starting point this year due to the construction at Park Place Middle School.

The Monroe Chamber of Commerce and the Monroe Fair Days Parade Committee have been busy collaborating, with the intention of making this year's parade a special one. In addition to the new starting point, this year's parade will be one of the best yet, said chamber board member Lisa Caldwell.

"The 2016 Fair Day's Parade will differ from previous years because we have several new faces in town,GÇ¥ she said. "A new Chamber of Commerce director, several new board members and business owners have brought fresh ideas to our parade and celebration surrounding the Evergreen State Fair.GÇ¥

With the increase in community support and participation over the years, this year's parade will be hosting two Fair Days Market venues, both opening at 9 a.m. The two markets will be located on West Main Street and at the Monroe Christian School. The markets will close as the parade concludes, so attendees can head over to the Evergreen State Fair.

For those visiting Monroe and looking to stay for the weekend, www.choosemonroe.com provides information on lodging and local event information.

On the day of the parade, Monroe residents and those passing through can expect several road closures. Between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m., 179th Avenue Southeast will be closed from West Main Street to 160th Street Southeast, West Main Street will be closed from 179th Avenue Southeast to North Blakely Street, North Blakely Street will be closed from West Main Street to West Hill Street and West Hill Street will be closed from North Blakely Street to North Kelsey Street.

"Without the support of organizations such as the city of Monroe, Evergreen State Fairgrounds, Monroe Chamber of Commerce, Republic Services, Speedway Chevrolet, Monroe Public Schools and, of course, the many volunteers that help keep the parade moving and organized, this amazing event would not be possible,GÇ¥ said Monroe Chamber of Commerce executive director Yvonne M. Gallardo-Van Ornam

While this year's parade has a great amount of merchants, there are still a few vendor spaces available. People can contact the chamber if interested in a vendor space or wanting to offer a helping hand, as there is still a need for further volunteer support.

To learn more about these opportunities or the Monroe Fair Days event, contact chamber operations manager Shelly Nyhammer 360-794-5488 or office@monroewachamber.org.