After a long wait, Bradenton’s De Soto Grand Parade finally made a comeback this weekend.
Billed as one of the oldest and largest parades in the Southeast, the community tradition was canceled in 2022 and 2023 due to thunderstorms. But with no rain in sight Saturday, the fun went on as planned.
Over 150 parade entrants — including illuminated floats, krewes, fire engines, local schools, businesses, organizations and elected officials — set off down Manatee Avenue to entertain crowds of all ages.
Local ABC7 weatherman Bob Harrigan served as the 2024 parade’s Grand Marshal.