Liberation Day parade participants wave the U.S. and CNMI flags.
(Liberation Day Committee) — This year’s 4th of July Parade is set to bring excitement and community pride to the streets of Susupe this Friday. Beginning at 10 a.m. on Friday, July 4, the parade will start from Quartermaster and proceed to the Civic Center in Susupe, featuring a festive lineup of marching bands, walking groups, decorated vehicles, and vibrant floats.
Leading this year’s parade as Grand Marshal is Robert “Bob” H. Jones, visionary entrepreneur, community advocate, and founder of Triple J Enterprises. Known throughout the Marianas and across the Pacific for his exceptional leadership and lifelong dedication to service, Jones has built a legacy that continues to shape the economic and social fabric of the CNMI, Guam, and the broader Micronesian region.
Parade watchers can look forward to both competing and non-competing floats. Competing floats will be judged based on originality, creativity, design, workmanship, and relevance to the parade theme. Prizes include $5,000 for first place, $2,000 for second place, and $800 for third place—ensuring a dynamic and creative display from participants across the community.
Parade Chair Priscilla Iakopo shared, “Our 4th of July Parade is truly made by the community, for the community. Every year, we want to create a fresh, exciting show that reflects the heart and creativity of our people. That’s why we continue to offer a $5,000 grand prize for the best float — to inspire everyone to dream big and come together to put on something spectacular for all to enjoy. The Parade Committee and Liberation Day Committee Board of Directors are here to help organize and support these efforts. Although it takes a lot of planning, sweat, and long, late hours, at the end of the day, it’s our contribution back to the community we love.”
The committee also informs the public of road closures for July 4. Beginning at 6 a.m., roads will be closed from Quartermaster to Beach Road Garapan (across from Century Insurance). Starting at 9 a.m., closures will extend from Quartermaster to Beach Road Susupe. Motorists are encouraged to use alternative routes and follow detour signage, while parade-goers are advised to arrive early to secure parking and a good viewing spot.
Following the parade, Liberation Day celebrations will continue through July 6 at the Civic Center Grounds in Susupe. The festival opens nightly at 6 p.m. and features food vendors, entertainment, cultural displays, and family-friendly activities.
A fireworks spectacle is scheduled for the evening of July 4, with the main show set to begin at 9 p.m. Spectators can expect a vibrant array of colors and choreography that will light up the sky and cap off the day’s festivities with awe and excitement — a moment everyone will be looking forward to.
For more information, updates, and parade details, please visit the Saipan Mayor’s Office social media pages. Come out and join the celebration as the community unites to honor our independence with pride and joy.
