The second annual Blue Mountain Festival & Parade took place this past Saturday, May 17, 2025, and brought the heart of Grand Terrace to life. Kicking off with a vibrant parade, the celebration began on Mt. Vernon Avenue and wound its way through the city, ending at Richard Rollins Park. Crowds lined the streets, cheering, waving, and capturing memories as the community gathered for a day of pride, fun, and unity.
Leading the parade were members of the Grand Terrace City Council riding in a vintage 1952 Seagrave Fire Truck, originally assigned to the City of Pasadena and famously featured in the 1952 Tournament of Roses Parade. The beautifully preserved fire engine is owned and operated by Sam and Stephanie Cereceres, longtime supporters of the Grand Terrace Cars & Coffee Car Club.
Following closely were Cub Scout Troops 40 and 242, accompanied by Mayor Bill Hussey, who walked proudly alongside the scouts waving to the community.
Mayor Hussey expressed deep gratitude to the community, residents, and volunteers for making the parade possible. “Without the community coming together, this wouldn’t happen,” he said. “It’s a special day to make new memories. I remember when my kids couldn’t wait for the GT parade.”
City Manager Bolowich added, “The parade is a wonderful way to bring our city together and celebrate the joys and accomplishments of the year. Events like this build a strong sense of community and make Grand Terrace a place where people want to live and belong.”
The parade also featured local and state leaders. Assemblywoman Leticia Castillo of the 58th Assembly District was escorted by Barney Barnett in his prized 1957 Chevrolet Convertible, while Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh rode in a classic 1958 Corvette.
Terrace Hills Middle School Principal Syreeta Afadonis walked proudly with her students, as did Grand Terrace Elementary School with its enthusiastic group of students, teachers, and parents.
Dance Dimensions Performing Arts Center (DDPAC) and The Cheer Factory lit up the street with lively performances, showcasing their rising stars and spirited routines.
Grand Terrace Little League players and coaches also joined the festivities, celebrating a proud history since 1992, including two softball teams that advanced to the Little League World Series and finished fourth in the world.
Missionaries from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints stood out with cheerful yellow balloons and signs offering free Bible study and prayer, spreading messages of love and positivity.
Grand Terrace High School was well represented with spirited performances by the Legacy Regiment, Titan Pep Squad, Titan Mascot, and the Wrestling Team. City Manager Konrad Bolowich joined Principal Charles Neighbours in walking proudly alongside the Class of 2025 Seniors, celebrating their final year and accomplishments.
The Grand Terrace Community Soccer Club showed up strong with players, coaches, and support from club president Renae Walker, who also played a key role in organizing the event.
Among the parade participants was Christy McGuire, owner of Get Loaded Guns and Ammo, driving a Ford F350 truck and trailer. A dedicated supporter of the community, she also had a booth to provide information on firearms safety and training.
Local favorite SoCal Subs handed out flyers for free garlic bread, reminding everyone of their nearly 20 years of serving oven-baked sandwiches in Grand Terrace.
Cal Skate GT rolled through with their award winning team. Known for skating lessons, STEM field trips, birthday parties, and more, they’ve become a cornerstone of the community.
Car enthusiasts had their moment as a fleet of classic vehicles drove along the parade route. Longtime resident Juanita Bigelow cruised in her 1957 Baby T-Bird, followed by the Schnetz family and their eye catching lineup and including a restored red 1969 Chevy long bed and a 1957 Chevy Belair bought when owner Randy Schnetz was just 13.
Guy Portillo drove his striking yellow 1956 Ford truck alongside friend Daryl Bruhl in his 1963 Porsche Super 90. Their friendship dates to the early 1960s, and they’re part of a rich history of car culture in Grand Terrace.
Coordinating the car lineup was Johan Gallo, the heart behind Grand Terrace Cars & Coffee and the annual Christmas Toy Drive Cruise. He drove his classic 1965 Shelby Cobra and also serves on the Blue Mountain Festival Committee.
Mayor Pro Tem Michelle Sabino summed it up best, “We’re excited to see everyone out here, our youth, volunteers, and community members. We want to keep this going for our children. Thank you to everyone who came out!”
City Councilmember Matt Brown shared a personal reflection, “Growing up in Grand Terrace, this parade was always a favorite event. It’s incredible to see it return and to be able to share the experience with a new generation of families.”
Whether it was through classic cars, student performances, or community pride, the second annual Blue Mountain Festival & Parade brought Grand Terrace together in a powerful way that will continue to celebrate this tradition, unity, and hometown spirit. We love Grand Terrace!!