OCEANSIDE, Calif. — Spectators lined the South Coast Highway as Oceanside kicked off their Fourth of July Festivities with their annual Independence Day parade. CEO of Mainstreet Oceanside Gumaro Escarcega said 130 local organizations participated in this year's parade.
"Military, we have lowrider cars, other car clubs, community groups, we have three hometown heroes that were nominated by the community," said Escarcega.
Vanessa Graziano was one of those heroes of Oceanside. She was recognized for her work with those experiencing homelessness in the community.
"It means a lot to me, I've been living here for 20 years, I grew up in Carlsbad," said Graziano.
She said her efforts succeeded thanks to the community's support.
"You know it's really beautiful just to see everybody come together and all the love and support I mean we really do have such an incredible community," said Graziano.
She told CBS 8 events like Saturday's parade is a great example of the community.
"For those of us who have been here for years and generations and even now, just to see all the families and everyone lining up it's awesome," said Graziano.
Escarcega tells CBS 8 this year's parade aims to celebrate the heritage of Oceanside and awards were given to floats that creatively expressed the theme.
"Its rewarding to give back to the community, this is not a big money marker, or for profit event, we always give back and this is one of the events to give back to the community," said Escarcega.
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