Both events drew international attention to Seattle, the Emerald City. Parade grand marshals have included Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, and Ted Turner. U.S. Presidents Richard Nixon and John F. Kennedy have participated in festivities. The first year's grand parade attracted 250,00 spectators. In future festivals the grand parade was replaced with a nighttime torchlight parade, featuring marching, motor and horse units, and illuminated floats.
Spectators begin to line the streets in the morning for best curbside views.
In 1977, a torchlight run was added before the parade. The run swelled to 10,000 participants during the 1980s. The U.S. Navy sails its grand vessels into Elliott Bay, where the ships are open for public tours. The U.S. Navy's Blue Angels also fly over a special route designed for safety. Other events include more than 16 neighborhood ethnic and heritage celebrations.