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Michael Gonzalez Parade
updated: Jun 23, 2012, 7:20 PM
By David Powdrell
I never knew Michael Gonzalez. As I understand it, Michael was a mime, an artist and an incredibly
gifted individual.
Michael has since passed away. But in 1974, he and a few friends whimsically danced down State Street
in celebration of his birthday.
The celebration of Michael Gonzalez's birthday is now known as the Summer Solstice Parade, which
attracts over 100,000 people and is the largest single-day event in Santa Barbara. The event
incorporates concerts, stage performances, floats, colorful costumes, street fairs and dance ensembles.
There's something about the Summer Solstice Parade….maybe it's the randomness of the performers
and their attire. Maybe it's the sound of the rhythmic drums beating powerfully in the background.
Maybe it's the playful approach to art. Whatever it is, I'm drawn to it like a moth to the light.
Thank you to Claudia Bratton and all the amazing staff and volunteers that keep the celebration alive. I
think Michael would be pleasantly surprised at how his birthday celebration has grown through the
years.
Here's to you, Michael Gonzalez. Happy birthday.
Send this picture as a postcard
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