Windermere Professional Partners

Locals weigh in with their favorite Puyallup Daffodil Parade Tips

March 28, 2018
Last updated September 12, 2019

Nothing says springtime in Pierce County like the annual Daffodil Festival Grand Floral Parade! This year’s parade, themed “Traditions in Bloom,” takes to the streets on Saturday, April 6. And it’s truly a traveling event that begins in Tacoma in the morning, then rolls through Puyallup and Sumner before making its way to Orting by late afternoon. Check out the latest parade start times to help you plan your day. (And if the parade passes you by, consider catching the Daffodil Marine Festival and Parade hosted by the Tacoma Yacht Club just a week later.)

While you can take your pick of any of the four cities and join in the fun, these voices are all about Puyallup when it comes to parade day:

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As a life-long Puyallup local, Trish Stone prefers her version of a traditional parade day, which means gathering along Meridian in downtown Puyallup.

And what does she have to say about those prized insider tips?

“The secrets aren't so secret, but parking is free if you're willing to walk (wear comfy shoes), hit the farmers market first, let the kids play at the park to wear ’em out (so they'll want to sit at the parade), and head over to any curbside at least an hour before start time,” says Trish. “Remember it can get warm if it's sunny so maybe look for a partially shaded spot under a business overhang.”

Her suggested tools of the trade are a chair for yourself, a wagon or blanket for the kiddos, and those ever-important snacks that go a long way in keeping everyone happy while you’re waiting for the fun to begin.

Erin Dobrinski speaks from the experience of a parade mom! Her daughters were in the parade when they were young.

“I always liked watching by the Puyallup School District administration building (across from Pioneer Park),” says Erin. “It seemed to be somewhat in the middle of the parade and also offers easy access to coffee shops, restrooms, etc.” Getting there early is the only way to go if your plan is to bring your lawn chairs and set up camp.

Three words sum up Patty Golob’s Daffodil Parade advice: Definitely in Puyallup!

“Some of the bands and floats don't go all the way to Orting. Puyallup usually has a very large crowd,” she says. Patty also ups the ante, suggesting that you might even need to be there 2 hours early to snag a prime seat along the parade route.

Still not sure about getting there early and setting up camp?

Erin shares that you can absolutely have your own fun parade experience while on the move.

“It's also fun to walk along and follow the parade, especially if you are watching a favorite group or want to follow something you find interesting,” Erin says.