The Dunwoody Fourth of July Parade: A Celebration of Community

Dunwoody City Council Member Joe Seconder riding a decorated bicycle with American flags during the Dunwoody Fourth of July Parade 2026 celebration

Some events you attend.

Others you experience.

For me, the Dunwoody Fourth of July Parade is most definitely the latter.

Every year, I look forward to decorating my bicycle, putting together an energetic and patriotic playlist, and joining thousands of people from across Dunwoody and the region in celebrating one of our city's most cherished traditions.

When the parade begins, something special happens. Children line the streets with bags ready for candy. Families wave from lawn chairs and tents. Music fills the air. High-fives become contagious. Before long, complete strangers are smiling, waving, and singing along.

By the time I reached the end of the route, I realized something I seem to feel every year—I didn't want it to end.

Maybe that's because, for a few wonderful hours, life slows down and the things that unite us become more noticeable than the things that divide us.

I wanted to turn around, ride back to the starting line, and do it all over again.

Every great parade begins long before the first float rolls or the first band starts playing. One of my favorite parts of the day is everything that happens before the parade begins—and again after it ends. The staging area is a celebration in itself, offering the chance to reconnect with friends, visit with fellow civic leaders, and meet the many organizations and participants preparing for the parade. After the parade, it's just as enjoyable catching up with people, hearing about their experiences, and reflecting on another memorable Independence Day together.

Dunwoody Mayor and City Council members gathered before the Fourth of July Parade 2026 in Dunwoody Georgia

This year was especially meaningful. As our nation celebrated its 250th anniversary, Dunwoody also celebrated the 50th anniversary of our Fourth of July Parade. For half a century, this tradition has brought together neighbors, families, veterans, first responders, civic organizations, local businesses, volunteers, and visitors to celebrate both our nation's independence and the community that makes Dunwoody such a wonderful place to call home.

This year's parade theme, "Honoring the Past, Marching into the Future," beautifully reflected both milestones.

It was especially fitting that the Dunwoody Preservation Trust served as this year's Grand Marshal. I enjoyed spending a few minutes with Kristin Simons, Executive Director, and Allegra Johnson, President, before the parade began.

Joe Seconder with Kristin Simons and Allegra Johnson of the Dunwoody Preservation Trust serving as Grand Marshal of the Dunwoody Fourth of July Parade 2026

Another fun moment before the parade was meeting the incredible Stayin' Alive Crew, an over-50 dance and performance group whose mission is "to inspire a passion for life after 50 while making a positive impact and proving age is limitless!"

Their enthusiasm was contagious and another reminder that this celebration isn't simply something to watch—it's something to be part of.

Joe Seconder with Stayin’ Alive Crew over 50 dance group at Dunwoody Fourth of July Parade staging area before the 2026 parade

One of my favorite traditions each year is riding alongside my fellow members of the Dunwoody City Council.

Dunwoody City Council members riding bicycles together in the 2026 Fourth of July Parade through downtown Dunwoody Georgia

While Mayor Lynn proudly leads the way in a convertible, the six of us on City Council follow together on our bikes.

Here's a short glimpse of our City Council having fun riding together in the parade.

I genuinely look forward to experiencing it with them every year. I'm grateful for the camaraderie we share and never take it for granted. Throughout the route we're laughing, waving to families, exchanging high-fives with children, and simply enjoying one of Dunwoody's favorite traditions.

Crowds of families and spectators lining Dunwoody streets during the Fourth of July Parade 2026 with children collecting candy and waving flags

This year, I believe I saw the largest crowd I've ever witnessed along the parade route. Families arrived early—some setting up chairs and tents days in advance—staking out their viewing spots along the route. Friends gathered together, and children eagerly waited along the curb with bags in hand, ready to collect candy from the parade participants—just like Halloween.

Watching generations of families celebrating together reminded me that this parade is about much more than a single morning each July. It is a tradition that connects neighbors, creates lasting memories, and strengthens the fabric of our community.

For me, this year’s parade also carried a very personal meaning.

In late 2023, I wasn't sure I would ever ride a bicycle again.

After months of severe pain and uncertainty, I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. There were days when even simple tasks—closing my hand into a fist or opening a water bottle - were difficult. Riding a bicycle, something I had loved for years, suddenly felt uncertain.

As I continued recovering later in 2024, I was able to ride in that year's Fourth of July Parade, and I was overwhelmed with gratitude. This year, as I pedaled through Dunwoody exchanging high-fives, hearing children laugh, and watching families celebrate together, I found myself feeling that same appreciation all over again.

When you're healthy and able to do the things you love, it's easy to take them for granted.

I try not to.

Dunwoody Homeowners Association volunteers and Dunwoody Police officers supporting and securing the Fourth of July Parade 2026

My sincere thanks to everyone who makes this event possible.

A special thank you to the Dunwoody Homeowners Association, whose dedicated volunteers have organized this beloved tradition for decades.

Thank you as well to our outstanding Dunwoody Police Department, city staff, Public Works crews, first responders, sponsors, parade participants, volunteers, and everyone else whose hard work makes this celebration possible each year.

I often say that serving on the Dunwoody City Council is one of the greatest honors of my life.

Days like this remind me why.

The Dunwoody Fourth of July Parade is more than a parade.

It is a celebration of community.

And, just like every year, I already can't wait to do it all again next Fourth of July.