Veiled Prophet Parade

Every year, St. Louis celebrates Independence Day with Fair Saint Louis and the Veiled Prophet Parade. The VP Parade has been a tradition in the city for more than 130 years. Here's everything you need to know to enjoy this year's parade.

When and Where:

The 2012, VP Parade is Wednesday, July 4, from 10 a.m. to noon, in Downtown St. Louis. The parade begins at Washington and 4th Street, makes its way south on 4th to Market Street, then heads west on Market to Union Station.

You'll want to arrive early to get a good spot along the parade route. The prime spots along Market Street fill up quickly. If you can't make it down for the parade, you can always watch the festivities live on KMOV-TV, Channel 4.

What You'll See:

The VP Parade has all of the things you'd expect to see. There are more than 130 units in the parade, including marching bands, floats, giant balloons, clowns, military honor guards and more. It takes about two hours for all of the participants to make their way down the parade route. The theme for the 2012 parade is Around the World, so many of the floats and other entries will have variations of that theme. Bill Macon is the Grand Marshal of this year's parade, and Brigadier General David F. Irwin of the Missouri National Guard is the Honorary Grand Marshal.

After the Parade:

Of course, the VP Parade is just the beginning of St. Louis' biggest July 4th celebration. After the parade, crowds will make their way to the Gateway Arch for Fair Saint Louis. The three-day event features air shows, free concerts, giant fireworks displays and more. For more information, including the fair schedule and entertainment lineup, see my Guide to Fair Saint Louis 2012.

For even more ways to celebrate Independence Day, check out the 15 Top July 4th Celebrations in the St. Louis Area.

Parking and Transportation:

If you plan to drive, keep in mind that parking for the parade and fair can be quite pricey. Many of the parking lots and covered garages near the parade route charge $20 to $25. Some options for parking are the Stadium East and West garages near Busch Stadium, the S&H surface lots at 4th Street and Cerre, and the parking lots near Laclede's Landing and the Edward Jones Dome.

Metrolink will also be offering increased train service during the parade and fair. Stations near the parade route are 8th and Pine, Busch Stadium, Civic Center and Union Station. A one-way ticket is $2.25 for adults or $1.10 for seniors and children.

madmen james cameron liam hemsworth hunger games miss canada justin bieber boyfriend marianas trench