The sun came out for the last part of the Procession of the Species recently, the 16th time residents of the Olympia, Wash., area have gathered to draw attention to endangered species and our relationship to the earth.
A group of citizens in Olympia was looking for a way to recognize Earth Day’s 25th Anniversary and to mark action in Congress to renew the Endangered Species Act in 1995. They created a community celebration now attended by thousands of people every year.
More than 100 volunteers take on the different jobs needed to make the procession happen.
A studio opens before the parade where people can make huge puppets, floats, masks, headdresses, and banners. Recycled materials and arts and crafts supplies are available. Workshops are offered.
In addition to costumes representing species, musical and dance groups, which this year included a sun band and sun dancers, add a lively beat to the parade.
The Procession of the Species has grown from 800 people participating in the parade to more than 3,000. About 30,000 people watch the parade.
See "Thousands Flood Downtown Olympia for the 16th Annual Procession of the Species" for more information on the parade.
For details on the event, see Procession of the Species Celebration.
If you'd like to plan a Procession of the Species celebration in your community, see Start a New Procession.
