Anchored in Freedom
Anchored in Freedom: A Community Celebration at Liberty Station takes place on Friday, July 3, 2026, honoring America’s 250th birthday and the U.S. Navy’s historic connection to Liberty Station — San Diego’s former Naval Training Center.
The day features a morning Fleet Week 5K, followed by a patriotic parade and community festival presented in partnership with Love Thy Neighborhood. The day will also include live music from the U.S. Navy Band, a wing eating contest hosted by Dirty Birds, and a variety of family-friendly activities and experiences throughout Ingram Plaza.
Event Schedule
Fleet Week 5K Fun Run
Liberty Station waterfront and surrounding paths
A community 5K run and walk open to all ages and abilities.
Parade
1:00 – 2:00 pm
Cushing Road (Womble to Chauncey)
A patriotic parade featuring themed floats honoring freedom, service, and community.
Community Festival
2:00 – 5:00 pm
Ingram Plaza, Liberty Station
Live music from the U.S. Navy Band, a wing eating contest hosted by Dirty Birds, plus family-friendly activities, food vendors, and interactive experiences.
Thank you to our Sponsors!
To sign up and learn more, click here
Anchored in Freedom Parade & Community Festival
250th Anniversary Celebration of America at Liberty Station, Friday, June 3, 2026
Thank you for your interest in participating in and attending the Anchored in Freedom Parade & Community Festival! We’re excited to celebrate this special milestone with our community.
The Freedom Parade begins at 1:00 pm, followed by the Community Festival at 2:00 pm at Liberty Station on Friday, June 3, 2026.
General Event Information
When? Friday, July 3 Where is the event?
- Parade: 1:00 – 2:00 pm on Cushing Road (from Womble to Chauncey)
- Community Festival: 2:00 – 5:00 pm at Ingram Plaza, Liberty Station
Is there a cost to attend?
No, both the parade and festival are free to attend.
Will there be road closures?
Yes. Cushing Road will be closed starting at 11:00 am. Nearby streets may also experience delays, so please plan ahead.
Parade Participants
How do I participate in the parade?
Please sign up in the application above. https://lovethyneighborhood.world/freedom-parade
A small participation fee applies.
What constitutes a “float”?
Every parade entry is considered a “float,” whether it's a single golf cart, a marching group, a dance troupe, or a decorated vehicle with participants. The application outlines what is included per entry.
What time should participants arrive?
Participants must arrive between 11:00 am and 12:00 pm for check-in and staging.
Where do participants check in?
Check-in will be located at Historic Decatur Rd and Womble Rd. Event staff and volunteers will be available to assist.
How is parade line-up organized?
We strive to curate a lineup that highlights each float’s expression—while thoughtfully spacing and grouping entries to avoid overlap and create a dynamic, engaging flow throughout the parade. Line-up assignments will be shared in advance. Volunteers will direct participants to their designated staging areas upon arrival.
How long is parade? The parade starts at 1pm. The parade lasts roughly 1-2 hours, depending on the number of floats participating. The route is approximately 1/2 a mile.
Is there a theme?
Yes! “Anchored in Freedom” celebrates the 250th anniversary of America. Participants are encouraged to decorate with patriotic or historical themes.
Are there participation guidelines?
Yes. All entries must be family-friendly and align with the spirit of the event. No inappropriate signage, or unsafe behavior is permitted. Music volume must be at appropriate levels and not contain profanity.
Are there safety rules?
- Vehicles must operate at slow, controlled speeds
- Participants should maintain safe distances from vehicles
- Throwing items into the crowd is not allowed
Are pets allowed in the parade?
Yes, well-behaved pets are welcome but must be leashed at all times. Owners are responsible for the cleanup.
Community Festival Vendors
How can I become a vendor?
Please sign up in the application above. https://lovethyneighborhood.world/freedom-parade
A small vendor fee applies.
What are the festival hours and location?
The festival runs from 3:00 – 5:00 pm at Ingram Plaza, Liberty Station.
What types of vendors are allowed?
We welcome a variety of community vendors, including food, retail, and informational booths. All vendors must be approved in advance.
Attendees
Where can I park?
Free parking is available throughout Liberty Station.
Will food be available?
Yes, a variety of food vendors will be available during the Community Festival.
Are restrooms available?
Yes, public restrooms are located near Ingram Plaza.
Is the event ADA accessible?
Yes, both the parade route and festival area are accessible.
What should I bring?
We recommend bringing sunscreen, water, comfortable seating (such as folding chairs), and anything else you may need to enjoy the day.
Well-behaved pets are welcome but must be leashed at all times. Owners are responsible for cleanup.
Dress in your best patriotic gear to celebrate America. There will be a costume contest for all attendees at 4 pm. No need to register.
Additional Information
For more 5K information please contact admin@fleetweeksandiego.org
Who can I contact with questions?
For more parade information, please contact raquel@lovethyneighborhood.world.
For more community festival information, please contact info@libertystation.com
What happens in case of bad weather?
The event will take place rain or shine unless conditions are deemed unsafe. Updates will be shared via our websites and socials.
Can I volunteer?
Yes! Volunteers are welcome and appreciated. Please sign up above or email raquel@lovethyneighborhood.world.
Who can I contact with questions?
For more parade information, please contact raquel@lovethyneighborhood.world.
For more community festival information, please contact info@libertystation.com