Historic Folsom Gears Up For Upcoming Hometown Parade

Next weekend, Folsom’s celebration kicks off with Hometown Country Radio Show concert Friday night

Red, white, and blue is already starting to take over Sutter Street as volunteers and local officials are busy preparing for the upcoming Historic Folsom Hometown Parade that is set to bring its spectacular fanfare, festive spirit, and family-friendly fun that has made this celebration one of Folsom’s most anticipated summer traditions next week. The parade steps off at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 28, setting the tone for an all-American weekend in the heart of the city.

Presented by the Folsom Historic District Association, the annual Hometown Parade draws thousands of spectators to the city’s historic corridor to celebrate community, country, and connection. Parade-goers can expect a lively and colorful procession of marching bands, equestrian units, vintage cars, dance teams, costumed characters, festive floats, and civic groups. The event is free to attend, and attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure spots along the route, especially in shaded areas.

But the celebration doesn’t end when the last float rolls by. The Hometown Parade is the centerpiece of a full weekend of festive happenings in Historic Folsom. Following the parade, families are invited to stick around and enjoy live music, street entertainment, and shopping throughout the district. Many local shops and restaurants will offer specials and extended hours, giving visitors even more reasons to explore the historic corridor and support small businesses.

Kicking off the weekend’s patriotic festivities on Friday night, June 27, the Hometown Country Radio Show returns to the Zittel Family Amphitheater for an evening of twang, harmony, and heart. From 7:00 to 10:00 p.m., this locally produced concert event will showcase a variety of talented regional artists in an opry-style musical revue. With its homespun charm and star-spangled spirit, the concert serves as the perfect prelude to Saturday’s parade.

Adding a special touch to this year’s festivities, Eric Adams, a Folsom restaurateur and community leader, has been named Grand Marshal of the 2025 parade. Adams, owner of Bacchus House Bistro, is widely known not only for his culinary talents but also for his deep dedication to the city and its residents.

“Our parade committee and FHDA Board of Directors was thrilled to ask Eric Adams to be this year’s Grand Marshal,” said Judy Collinsworth, Executive Director of the Folsom Historic District Association. “Eric first captured the heart of our historic district in 2020 when he stepped into a holiday role that brought magic, joy, and wonder to families all across our community.”

That role—portraying a jolly figure of holiday cheer—has become a seasonal tradition in Historic Folsom. Adams devotes countless hours during the holidays visiting with families, spreading joy and goodwill. He also hosts an exclusive, quieter holiday evening for children with special needs, providing a safe and meaningful experience.

Behind the scenes, Adams is equally generous. He annually hosts a thank-you dinner for volunteers who help make the district shine during the season. His involvement in the parade is also longstanding—having entered floats in previous years that were so over-the-top and joy-filled they swept every award category.

“Eric is not just generous—he’s an inspiration,” said Collinsworth. “His dedication to this community and to the joy of the season reminds us all what the holidays—and hometown pride—are truly about. We are incredibly proud to celebrate him as our 2025 Hometown Parade Grand Marshal.”

Adams shared his gratitude for the honor with Folsom Times, which was present during the announcement.

“It is an absolute honor and privilege for me to be named by the Folsom Historic District as this year’s 2025 Grand Marshal for our Hometown parade celebration!” he said. “Folsom is an absolute gem! Not only is my restaurant, Bacchus House Bistro, in Folsom, but my heart and soul resides here too.”

He added, “To be named Grand Marshal by our Historic District is such an honor. I am beyond grateful! Happy Summer Folsom and have a very happy 4th of July! God Bless Folsom and this beautiful community!”

As the countdown to parade day begins, excitement is building in Folsom’s Historic District. With patriotic energy, family traditions, and community spirit in full swing, Historic Folsom is ready to shine once again.

Whether you’re cheering on a local marching band, enjoying the music under the stars, or celebrating with friends and neighbors over coffee and pancakes after the parade, the 2025 Hometown Parade Weekend is sure to be one to remember.

For parade participation, event details, or to plan your visit, go to www.historicfolsom.org.

Folsom Times to Livestream Parade

Saturday morning both sides of Historic Folsom’s Sutter Street are expected to be lined with spectators as the annual Hometown Parade makes its return to the city’s vibrant Historic District. But those that are unable to make it out in person will be able to enjoy the event live as well as Folsom Times has partnered with the Folsom Historic District and several community partners to live stream the event.

Folsom Times, which is now home to over 2 million monthly users that rely on FolsomTimes.com for their local news and happenings, has been involved with the Hometown Parade from planning to sponsorship and participation. This year, the locally owned and operated media company is joining forces with Orangevale Live, who will provide its team to assist with the filming and broadcast of the event.

On parade day, no matter where they are, those wishing to check out the Historic Folsom Hometown Parade can simply jump online, visit www.folsomtimes.com and be taken right to the livestream broadcast that will take place through YouTube live. The event will feature all the sights and sounds of the parade, just as if the viewers were there in person, including the parade announcers. After the event, the parade can be viewed on demand for those that want to watch it at a later time as well.

The livestream for the event will begin approximately 15 minutes prior to the parade’s beginning to give viewers the opportunity to tune in and get settled to enjoy the event from the comfort of wherever they may be. On the day of the parade, simply visit www.folsomtimes.com to be taken to the livestream by the simple click of a button.

Behind the Scenes: Volunteers Make the Patriotic Magic Happen

While the Hometown Parade delivers unforgettable experiences for the public, it would not be possible without the dedication of countless volunteers working behind the scenes. The Folsom Historic District Association operates with a small paid staff and relies heavily on the time, effort, and passion of community members who come together to make these events shine.

These volunteers are the backbone of the celebration, helping to plan the parade months in advance, coordinating road closures, setting up stations, managing logistics, assisting participants, and decorating the district. On event day, they’re everywhere—manning barricades, offering directions, and making sure everything runs smoothly and safely for attendees.

What makes it even more meaningful is that this is not a profitable venture—it’s a gift to the community. The parade and its accompanying events are offered in the spirit of philanthropy and civic pride, powered entirely by the people who believe in Folsom’s historic charm and the joy of shared celebration.

Their behind-the-scenes commitment is a reminder that the heartbeat of every hometown tradition is found not just in the spotlight—but in the hands of those who quietly make it all possible.

Folsom’s Hometown Country Radio Show Returns June 27 with All-Star Lineup

FOLSOM—Grab your boots, pack a picnic, and get ready to two-step under the stars—Folsom’s Hometown Country Radio Show is back for another unforgettable night of music, memories, and hometown pride.

The locally produced country music festival will once again fill the Zittel Family Amphitheater with twang, harmony, and toe-tapping rhythms on Friday, June 27 from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m., serving as a lively prelude to the annual Historic Folsom Hometown Parade taking place the following morning and setting the tone for a festive weekend in the heart of the city.

Produced by local musicians Billy J Walsh and Ian Cornell, the Hometown Country Radio Show has become a signature part of Folsom’s summer entertainment calendar, delivering a fast-paced mix of classic hits, modern country anthems, and spirited performances by some of the region’s top talent. The show guides audiences through the evolution of country music—from the legends of Memphis and Nashville like Hank Williams and Patsy Cline, to the twang of Bakersfield’s Merle Haggard and Buck Owens, and on to the Southern California country-rock of The Eagles and Linda Ronstadt.

This year’s featured artist lineup includes Kristen Brown, Cynthia Renee, Garratt Wilkin, Geoffrey Miller, Joe Orlando, Malekos Trio, Melissa Corona, Sunny Mitchell, and Tom Rigney, bringing a mix of styles and eras together on one stage. From soulful ballads to high-energy anthems, each performer contributes to a show that captures the heart and history of country music.

Supporting the show on stage will be an ensemble of talented musicians who help power the performances from start to finish. This year’s stage artists include Kevin Jachetta, Matt Twain, Jeff Brzozowski, Flying Eugene Flowers, and Michael Gregory, along with the members of The Sky Kings, ensuring the sound is just as strong as the voices leading it.

The evening will be emceed by co-producer Ian Cornell, while Billy J Walsh—also a performer—will help lead the show’s flow through various eras and styles. Together, they promise a multi-artist musical journey that celebrates the genre’s greatest moments while introducing audiences to new voices as well.

“The show takes the audience on a journey,” said Walsh. “From the earliest days of country and honky-tonk to the chart-toppers of today, every artist brings their own voice to this shared celebration of American music.”

Guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good spot on the amphitheater’s tiered lawn. Low-back chairs and blankets are welcome, and attendees are invited to enjoy dinner and drinks from the surrounding Historic District restaurants and vendors. Beer and wine will also be available for purchase on site.

The Hometown Country Radio Show is presented in partnership with the Folsom Historic District Association, with Blue Iron Foundations & Shoring serving as the official stage sponsor.

For full details on this event and others happening in Historic Folsom, visit www.historicfolsom.org.