Photos by Ken Peterson, Adam Gillitt and Eric J. Kos

The 2015 Mayor’s Fourth of July Parade created a wealth of imagery and patriotic spirit.

Among the highlights was the Rancho Al Fortunado which graced the streets with their amazing horses and, believe it or not, even a pair of well-behaved bulls.

Equestrian entries to the parade parked their trailers off site where they were judged and then marched to the parade route where they received another judging at the review stand.

Receiving quite a bit of appreciation along the parade route was Alameda’s Gay Pride float. The Supreme Court’s recent ruling on gay marriage added extra glee for these celebrants.

Mayor Trish Herrera Spencer and her husband, Joel, led the parade in a bouncing green Chevrolet Impala equipped with hydraulic lifters.

Alameda’s newest sister city in the Phillippines didn’t miss a chance to participate in the parade.

Of course, no Fourth of July parade would be complete without the appearance and assistance of Alameda's first responders: the fire department entered modern and antique equipment in the parade, and the police department's officers put in extra time and effort to ensure the parade took place safely.