Celebrate Marana’s Founders’ Day with a Country Jamboree

Published on February 19, 2026

MARANA- Marana’s "Biggest Little Parade in Arizona" is getting a Country Jamboree twist as the annual Founders’ Day Parade & Festivities return to the Ed Honea Marana Municipal Complex on Saturday, March 21, 2026 from 10:00AM - 3:00PM.

The Town invites the community to gather along Marana Main Street for the parade, which kicks off at 10 a.m., followed by free, family-friendly activities at the municipal complex until 3 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs and arrive early to secure a spot along the parade route.

Serving as the 2026 Parade Grand Marshal is the Marana Thunder Football and Cheer Team. Parade judges include Wayne Barnett, CPRE, Marana Parks & Recreation Director; Joshua Carzoli, PharmD, MBA, BCACP, MHC HealthCare CEO; Sally Edwards, CTA, Marana Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center Coordinator; and Buzz Jackson, Tucson Cumulus Radio Station Group Program Director (KIIM FM 99.5 and 97-5 The Vibe).

Guests are also encouraged to bring a non-perishable food donation to support the Marana Food Bank. Pet food donations are also needed. Donation stations will be located at the Judges' Stage located at Marana Main Street/Bill Gaudette Drive and at the Marana Food Bank booth in the festival. Other activities include live music performed by XPLOSION, four diverse cultural dance performances, car display presented by Truly Nolen, historic exhibits, jumping castles, food trucks, public mural, chalk art alley, art activities, and more!

The event marks 49 years since the Town’s incorporation on March 21, 1977. Founders' Day parade entries are being accepted through March 15th.

Learn more and sign up to be in the parade HERE.

Learn more about the event here and view full performance schedules.