2026 Parade Theme: 250 Years Strong, We All Belong’!

The theme suggestion was submitted by Fouse Elementary first-grader Reagan Samborsky in the Rotary’s annual contest to pick the parade theme, open to school district youngsters in kindergarten through fifth grade. 

For being chosen as the theme contest winner, Reagan will receive $100 and is invited to ride in a place of honor on the Rotary’s float with a friend or family member during the big State Street parade on July 4.

Representatives from the Rotary Club will celebrate Reagan on Tuesday, May 19, with a pizza party for her class at Fouse Elementary. Reagan and her family will also be honored guests at the club’s weekly luncheon May 21 at the Medallion Club.

Westerville’s July 4th celebration, staged since 1962 by the Rotary Club of Westerville, is a day-long event.

The Rotary Club of Westerville Independence Day Celebration also includes:

• Our 5K Walk/Run​ at the Westerville Athletic Complex, beginning at 7:30 a.m. A Veterans Honor Guard Ceremony will take place at the city’s new Veterans Memorial at the park at 7 a.m., followed by the Kids Fun Run dashes about 7:15 a.m.
• Our Free Concert Series and Food Truck Festival, also at the Athletic Complex, from 5 -9:45 p.m.
• The Westerville Independence Day Fireworks Show, being launched again from the Heritage Park near Everal Barn, at 10 p.m.

Build a float and join us in the big 2026 parade!

Local civic organizations, sports and school groups, and neighborhoods are encouraged to get their own entries together for the 2026 Parade.

Whether you plan to walk as a group or construct an elaborate float, the Rotary Club of Westerville welcomes your involvement. Click on the “Parade Registration Form and FAQs” graphic below to get going!

DIAMOND SPONSORS

BRONZE sponsors

• My Cousin's Cottage

• Renaissance Columbus Westerville - Polaris Hotel