Pepper Drive Parade Keeps Altadena Tradition Rolling

4th of July on Pepper Dr. in Altadena (Photo – Monica Hubbard)

One of Altadena’s longest-running neighborhood traditions returns Saturday as residents gather for the annual Pepper Drive Independence Day Parade, marking the second year the event has been held since the devastating Eaton Fire.

By Rena Kurlander

The quirky, anything-goes parade begins at 10:00 am at the corner of Pepper Drive and Glen Canyon, where participants are invited to decorate just about anything that rolls, walks or wags. Bikes, scooters, baby strollers, wagons, dogs, children and even participants themselves are all encouraged to join the colorful procession. Organizers say every year brings surprises, recalling that one year even a turtle took part.

Along with the decorated bikes, scooters, strollers, wagons, dogs and walkers, this year’s parade will include horses from Eaton Dam Stables, continuing a tradition that reflects the neighborhood’s unique character and giving attendees another memorable highlight along the route.

Participants should arrive by 10:00 am at the top of Pepper Drive, ready to travel the length of the street to 1748 Pepper Drive, where neighbors will gather afterward for refreshments and conversation. Pepper Drive will be closed to vehicle traffic beginning around 9:30 am, and residents are asked to move their cars before the closure.

Following the parade, attendees can enjoy water, juice, fruit, chips, cookies, cupcakes, coffee and bagels, along with other donated treats. Organizers welcome additional refreshment donations and thanked a neighbor who recently contributed Gatorade, a perennial favorite during the summer celebration. Activities will also include temporary tattoos, and a fire truck is expected to make an appearance.

The Pepper Drive Parade has been a neighborhood fixture for more than 50 years. The tradition began in the early 1960s and was revived in the early 1970s by resident Monica Hubbard. It has remained a hallmark of Altadena’s community spirit ever since.

Organizers encourage residents to invite friends and family to join the celebration, which has become a symbol of neighborhood resilience and togetherness as the community continues its recovery from the Eaton Fire.