A float and accompanying march titled "We the People" received the "Most Patriotic Float" award at the 2026 Huntington Beach July 4 parade, according to a report by www.orangejuiceblog.com. The event, celebrating the nation's 250th anniversary, is known as the "biggest and oldest Independence Day parade west of the Mississippi."
The "We the People" entry was described as a "No Kings" float and march, involving more than 30 participants. Jeff Lebow, the organizer, developed the concept for the float and march in February. As the idea evolved and more individuals joined the effort, participants took on roles representing historical figures; for instance, one person portrayed Ben Franklin, and another appeared as Betsy Ross. Lebow himself assumed the character of King George III for the parade.
As the float and march proceeded along the route, encompassing Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and Main Street, Lebow, in his King George III persona, interacted with the crowd. He delivered lines such as, "YOU peasants can’t run a country! What are you thinking? Look at you all! I alone can do this! I alone can fix this!" Lebow later explained that the intent behind these interactions was to "keep things subtle, allegorical," according to the blog post. The procession was met with "thunderous cheers" from spectators.
The realization of the "We the People" float and march was a collaborative effort involving several community members and groups. Mari Helm was credited with designing the costumes worn by the participants. Tony Chase, associated with allweprint.com, created the banners featured with the entry. Financial contributions were provided by "Protect HB," which the blog identified as a local anti-MAGA PAC. Additionally, Denise Arnold was mentioned for her contributions on Facebook, suggesting a broader involvement in the project, the report stated. The blog also noted that a banner on the float specifically referenced the Amendments to the Constitution.
The award was highlighted by the blog as particularly appropriate for the nation's Semi-Quincentennial. The organizers intend for this recognized float and march to make "many appearances" in the future, marking this July 4th event as their initial public showing. The article emphasized the collective effort required to bring the entry to life, likening it to the collaborative spirit involved in the birth of the nation.
