Crestview to Host America 250 Grand Parade Saturday with Olympic Medalist as Grand Marshal

The Okaloosa County America 250 Commission is inviting the public to a historic parade celebration this Saturday, November 7, at 11 a.m. along Main Street in downtown Crestview. The event marks 250 years of American independence and is expected to draw one of the largest patriotic crowds in the county's history.

The parade will feature vibrant floats, marching bands, tributes to veterans, and participation from community organizations and cultural groups. Crestview native and Olympic speed skater Mia Manganello, who won a bronze medal for the United States at the February 2026 Winter Games in Milan, Italy, will serve as the parade's Grand Marshal. Organizers encourage attendees to wear red, white, and blue or period colonial attire.

The parade will be live-streamed on Facebook at facebook.com/okaloosacountyamerica250 and on YouTube at youtube.com/@EmeraldCoastTV for those unable to attend in person. If weather forces a cancellation, a makeup date has been scheduled for Sunday, November 8, at 2 p.m.