Parade a Dazzling Display of Solar Flair

Toasty temperatures underscore Summer Solstice Celebration's sunshine theme, but a good time is had by all.

By Charles Croninger | Published on 06.22.2008

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It was the sun god’s time to shine Saturday. (Charles Croninger photo)

Santa Barbara’s annual Summer Solstice Celebration turned on the heat and turned out the crowds Saturday. Despite temperatures in the low 90s, more than 100,000 sun-baked spectators watched hundreds of colorful, zany participants parade up State Street to Alameda Park for an all-day party and an eclectic combination of live music, food, arts and crafts.

Charles Croninger is a local freelance photographer.

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A costume-clad reveler wings it with her accessories. (Charles Croninger photo)

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This year’s parade included a youth movement. (Charles Croninger photo)

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Artistic flourishes were everywhere. (Charles Croninger photo)

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Even the wait had an air of festive expectation about it. (Charles Croninger photo)

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A Summer Solstice Celebration outfit can never have too many jewels, sequins or feathers. (Charles Croninger photo)

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Grooving to the music. (Charles Croninger photo)

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The post-parade party in Alameda Park was child’s play, too. (Charles Croninger photo)

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The heat and the excitement made for a dog-day afternoon. (Charles Croninger photo)

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» Eric Zahm wrote on 06.22.08 @ 05:31 AM

It was a wonderful spectaular parade, enjoyed by all! Even with the soaring temps fun was had by all! I would like to wish all a very happy solestice.
Eric Zahm
Highlights Hair Salon

» Andy Gault wrote on 06.22.08 @ 06:41 AM

Not enough photos of the parade. Too many photos of the unwashed masses. Next time more photos of the very creative floats and folks in the parade. Too many photos of kids.  Dog photo is great.

[Editor’s note: Send us yours. We’re grateful to Chuck Croninger for sending us some of his.]

» Liberty Bowman wrote on 06.23.08 @ 04:04 PM

As an actual attendee of the parade (The Clan of the Sapphire Sky; third to last) I must say that though hotter than previous years this parade was one of my favorites. Everyone was so lovely and the crowd participated in our shenanigans and screamed at the confetti canon. This was such a great time!!!

» elizabeth stewart wrote on 06.25.08 @ 10:14 AM

Charles I am the she devil with accessories in the photo above and would love to have a copy or possibly I can pay you to send it to me in an email attachment for my mother! Many thanks Love Elizabeth Stewart

» Charles Croninger wrote on 06.27.08 @ 02:21 PM

Elizabeth,

email me at

 

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