By Sonia Welch Tapley
Every Fourth of July, King Street in Pine Point transforms into a vibrant celebration of community spirit. Now entering its 23rd year, the Pine Point Parade has grown from a small neighborhood gathering into a cherished tradition, welcoming visitors from over 50 towns and cities across America and Canada. It is a day rooted in simple joys: laughter, neighborhood pride, and a shared sense of gratitude.
Racing into the Morning
The festivities begin with the annual Kids’ Fun Run. Last year brought a record-breaking 216 young runners, prompting organizers to divide the race into two age groups. As children lined up at Engine 4 wearing their signature #1 runner bibs, the excitement was unmistakable. Watching the 3- to 12-year-olds race down King Street with flushed cheeks and wide smiles was a reminder that the best parts of life are often the simplest.
The Parade Steps Off
The parade starts at 9:00 a.m. Last year, Grand Marshal George Mageles led the procession from Hurd Park back to Engine 4, setting a tone of pride and celebration. The stirring sound of George Pulkkinen’s bagpipes filled the air, guiding a colorful procession of families, local groups, and creative participants. Girl Scouts, modern and antique fire engines, a police motorcycle, surplus military vehicles, and the Maine Scoop Co.’s vintage red truck rolled through the street, each adding to the day’s charm. Along the route, imagination took center stage. From “Mr. Pemberton,” the Jaws-themed Best Dressed Dog, to Lily Baker’s sparkling bicycle and a parade of decorated pets, bikes, and wagons, the creativity on display reflected the joyful spirit of Pine Point’s Fourth of July. Each entry, whether grand or simple, contributed to a shared sense of delight.
Honoring Our Heritage
Amid the celebration, the community paused for a moment of heartfelt gratitude as residents from the Maine Veterans’ Homes joined the celebration in two festively decorated vans. With flags waving and strawberry shortcake hand-delivered, neighbors took time to personally thank those who have served.
Sweet Traditions and Helping Hands
No Pine Point Parade celebration would be complete without its beloved strawberry shortcake, generously donated by Bayley’s Lobster Pound. Last year, families also enjoyed hands-on exhibits from the Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center, adding an educational touch. Behind the scenes, the Pine Point Parade Committee and dedicated volunteers ensured every detail ran smoothly—from safety coordination to the medallions and prizes that brought smiles to so many young faces.
A New Milestone: Pine Point School Park
This year marks an exciting step forward. The Pine Point Community Group, Parade Committee, and Scarborough Historical Society are proposing to officially name the town-owned open space beside the Engine 4 Fire Station (once home to the Pine Point one-room schoolhouse) as “Pine Point School Park.” This initiative will honor the community’s history while preserving a meaningful gathering space for generations to come.
Looking Ahead
As preparations begin for this year’s 250th Fourth of July celebration, the spirit of Pine Point remains as strong as ever, and all are warmly invited to join the festivities. The Fun Run begins at 9:00 a.m., with registration opening at 7:45 a.m. Bring your patriotic flair for a chance to win Best Dressed Kid, Bike, Wagon, and Dog.
Ask Us a Question
Do you have questions about the Pine Point Fourth of July Parade? Please send them to pinepointmaineusa@gmail.com or visit us on Facebook, Instagram, and PinePointParade.org.
Pine Point Parade Committee
Elaine Richer Marilyn Pena
Dianne McLellan Amy Roberts
Patricia Cote John Thurlow
Cinny Wood Sue Perrino
Bruce McLellan Sonia Tapley
Paul Kirby (aka Uncle Sam)
Sonia Welch Tapley is a member of the Pine Point Parade Committee and the granddaughter of founding member Dianne McLellan.
Top photo: Founder Elaine Richer coaching 2024 runners. Photo courtesy of Pine Point Parade Committee.
