Beaches declared open with annual parade and fanfare

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Spectators from around the Greater Jacksonville area gathered in Jacksonville Beach this past Sunday, April 29, for the Opening of the Beaches Parade, an annual tradition for Jacksonville’s beach communities.

Now in its 72nd year, this year’s parade featured local officials, veterans, pageant queens and more. Crowds cheered and thanked first responders as they passed, including the Beaches Energy linemen on their “Men at Work” float. From the race cars and buggies of Shriners Hospitals for Children to THE PLAYERS Championship’s island green float, local organizations made their presence known. With additional entertainment provided by the Crystal Springs Twirlers and the Fletcher High marching band, the event offered community members of all ages the opportunity to celebrate and enjoy the opening of yet another beach season.