CORONADO, Calif. — Thousands of people lined up along Orange Avenue in Coronado Thursday to watch the annual 4th of July parade.
"I love the energy, the people. I love the city, Coronado is a wonderful city to hang out and enjoy yourself, everybody's friendly," said Sally Moctezuma.
She's visiting Coronado from Los Angeles. Her friend, Christine Topete, said the parade is a tradition.
"We've been coming here for many years, it's the Fourth of July, and everybody loves this country," she said.
The women were dressed from head to toe in red, white and blue flags.
The two-and-a-half-hour parade included superheroes in impressive costumes and horses in festive gear.
"I like watching the dancers, and the people go by in the parade," said 13-year-old Blythe Croll. She's visiting from San Francisco.
While the holiday means many will enjoy gathering with family and friends, Tammy Alarcon said she never forgets the true meaning of the 4th. She said celebrating our country's freedom and independence is truly special.
"My mom was in the Army, I have tons of family members who have served," she said. "It's a blessing to be here, to wear what we want, talk to whomever we want, it's great. We are blessed."