Check out the three days of fun that are planned next weekend– including the 20th Annual 82nd Avenue of Roses Parade next Saturday morning, on April 25, along SE 82nd Avenue of Roses, of course …
It’s time once again for the 82nd Avenue of Roses Parade, this year on Saturday, April 25th.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
It hardly seems that it was two decades ago when a small band of plucky volunteers floated the idea of holding a springtime parade up S.E. 82nd Avenue of Roses.
But now, the nonprofit “82 Roses Community Enrichment Coalition” has announced the 20th anniversary of their 82nd Avenue of Roses Parade.
It’s an official Rose Festival parade, and it will take place on Saturday, April 25, stepping off at 9:30 a.m. This year’s route will go from S.E. Cora Street – just north of Holgate Boulevard – marching 19 blocks up to Clinton Street.
Expect lively entries in the 20th edition of the 82nd Avenue of Roses Parade.
Getting out the word about the 20th version of the 82nd Avenue of Roses Parade are Team Manager Bridget Bayer and volunteer Jennifer Maffei.
“Our theme for our parade this year is ‘History of East Portland’, because many neighbors in this diverse community are new to East Portland,” Team Leader Bridget Bayer announced.
“Again this year, spectators will be delighted watching as many as 100 colorful and entertaining entries pass by – including those representing the Portland Rose Festival, neighborhood associations, dance and theatrical groups, plus middle and high school marching bands, drummers – and probably a walking jazz band,” Bayer told East Portland News.
This year’s celebration includes the return of the Funtastic Carnival on the weekend of the parade.
This year’s celebration kicks off the afternoon before the parade, on Friday, April 24 – and runs through Sunday, April 26 – while the East-Portland-based Funtastic Carnival is open at the south end of Eastport Plaza, in the parking lot of the Hong Phat Super Center, providing kiddie and thrill rides, games of skill, and carnival food.
“Many other events, located on or near S.E. 82nd Avenue of Roses, including a Classic Car Show and Farmers Market, will be taking place as part of this special weekend,” Bayer pointed out.
Find out more about the parade, the affiliated activities, and volunteer opportunities, by visiting the official website of the 82 Roses Community Enrichment Coalition: CLICK HERE.
© 2026 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News™
