FAQ
Where and when do I need to arrive?
Please plan to arrive at the starting location at 600 Santa Barbara St at 10:30am. There will be a simple liability release form to sign and you will be given a wristband.
PLEASE NOTE: It is not possible to enter the parade late. You must get a wristband before it starts! Re
Where should I park?
You can park in any of the city lots marked by a pink star in the parade map. Streets east of the parade route have free street parking with no time limit (starting at Garden St). Other streets have 90 min. time limits but this doesn't seem to be enforced on festival days.
Is the parade free?
YES -- for you, our honored guests! We will cover the $20 registration fee per person. If you'd like you may donate here to help us cover the costs. (Children under 7 are not charged by the parade.)
What should I wear?
The forecast is for a warm and sunny day, so hats and sunscreen are recommended. Plan to wear festive Vaishnava attire -- this is our inaugural parade and the scene will be bright and colorful!
How long is the parade?
The parade is one mile long and slightly uphill. It will take approximately one and a quarter hours from start to finish once our cart gets rolling.
How long is the festival?
The festival runs three days -- Friday, Saturday, Sunday. The main festival day is Saturday, the day of the parade. Following the parade, we will have a devotee Picnic in the Park with kirtan, prasada, and a lecture by special guest HH Giriraj Swami.
Is the festival free?
Yes, the Solstice Festival after the parade is free to the public. There are two stages hosting a variety of musical acts throughout the day, as well as various vendor booths including our Bhakti Yoga booth in the Roots of Culture Zone.
Will there be prasada?
We will have prasada at our booth in the Roots of Culture Zone after the parade. Plan to have a good breakfast that day. We'll plan to have some light snacks for you as well as we wait our turn in the parade.
Who can I contact with questions?
Please feel free to send us an email or call Jayananda dasa at (805) 403-7510.