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.
Here are some scenes from the big night:
The Manatee County Fair Queens wave to the crowds during the DeSoto Parade on Saturday, April 27, 2024.
Young children scream for beads during the DeSoto Parade on Saturday, April 27, 2024.
The crowd screams for beads during the DeSoto Parade on Saturday, April 27, 2024.
It can be exhausting to wait for the start of the DeSoto Parade on Saturday, April 27, 2024.
One of the military floats during the DeSoto Parade on Saturday, April 27, 2024.
A child enjoys the shark ride at the block party before the DeSoto Parade on Saturday, April 27, 2024.
The Bradenton Police Dept. Color Guard marches during the DeSoto Parade on Saturday, April 27, 2024.
Two boys enjoy a treat at the block party before the DeSoto Parade on Saturday, April 27, 2024.
A boy on one of the military jeeps throws beads to the crowds during the DeSoto Parade on Saturday, April 27, 2024.
The crowds enjoy the festivities during the DeSoto Parade on Saturday, April 27, 2024.
A young girl watches the DeSoto Parade on Saturday, April 27, 2024.
Runners head West on Manatee Avenue during the DeSoto 5k before the DeSoto Parade on Saturday, April 27, 2024.
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