The Northwest Austin Civic Association (NWACA) hosted its annual Fourth of July Parade and Freedom Fest, drawing record-breaking crowds and enthusiastic community participation.
The celebration is one of the largest 4th of July events hosted in Austin and features marching groups like the Lawn Chair Brigade, float contests with cash prizes, and a post-parade festival with live music and family-friendly activities.
“The Northwest Hills Parade is a tradition my family has enjoyed for more than 50 years,” said Judge Elizabeth Earle. “It brings the entire community together.”
This year’s Grand Marshal, Mayor Kirk Watson, led the opening ceremony – Sheriff Sally Hernandez thanked first responders and led the crowd in a moment of silence to honor the lives lost in the July 4 2025, Central Texas Floods.
Leading this year’s parade was 104-year-old decorated World War II veteran Colonel Joe McPhail, who served as the Honorary Grand Marshal.
Following McPhail were the Jewish War Veterans and several other veteran organizations, Scout members, Lady Liberty and Uncle Sam, portrayed by Judge Amy Meachum and Brewster McCracken, and Northwest Austin Civic Association Board members, who tossed candy to spectators along the route.
Many decorative floats lined the parade and were entered in the Float Contest. The float “In Delores We Trust” took home the top prize.
Finally, the Lawn Chair Brigade dazzled parade-goers with their zany costumes and spirited cheers.
“This year was my 20th year participating in the Lawnchair Brigade,” Earle said. “It was a thrill to wear a dress my mother made and wore in the Parade in 1976.”
The parade ended at Doss Elementary School, where NWACA hosted a fun-filled Freedom Fest. Over 30 NWACA Business Members hosted booths with games, prizes, food, and drinks.
“Traditions are important to communities, and I’m thankful the Northwest Hills Parade has continued to be an important event every summer,” Judge Earle said.
