Looking to celebrate the longest day of the year?  Look no further.  The 24th Annual Fremont Solstice Parade kicks off the Fremont Fair on Saturday, June 16th.  The parade starts at noon in downtown Fremont.

Produced by the Fremont Arts Council, this parade is a wild celebration of art and creativity; it’s full of musicians, floats, body paint, giant puppets, and much more.  The parade is designed to celebrate the longest day of the year and to build a stronger community through art.

In past years, the Solstice Cyclists have unofficially started the parade by riding naked, covered in body paint.

Keep your eye out for this year’s McKay Grantees, who received funding to make their projects possible.  The 2012 McKay Grantees will be showcasing everything from trained baboons, dance troupes from several different genres, and a huge Chinese dragon made from water bottles and other recycled materials.

Some of the parade ensembles will also perform on the three stages along the way.

Follow the parade to Gas Works Park, where there will be a solstice celebration with music, food, and a beer garden.

Who: People of all ages are encouraged to attend, although parents planning to bring children should be aware that some parade ensembles may not wear much clothing.

When: Saturday, June 16th at noon.  The post-parade celebration will be from 1 pm to 7 pm.

Where: Downtown Fremont.  For more information see a map of the parade route.

How much: FREE.  However, donations to the Green Hat, which make events like this possible,  are encouraged.