The Hingham 4th of July Parade Committee will hold The Selectmen’s Cup Golf Tournament Monday, May 20, 2019 at the South Shore Country Club. This year’s Parade Auction will begin this week and conclude on May 20th. With the generous support of corporate sponsors and individual tournament and auction participants, the Parade Committee hopes to raise half the cost of the Parade, or about $20,000.
The 4th of July Parade, which is funded solely through private donations, costs roughly $40,000 each year. As the Parade grows, it becomes more expensive. Last year the Parade hosted 29 floats, 16 bands, multiple marching groups, performers, and vintage vehicles. Entertainment is the highest cost, with some of the most well-known and awarded bands having fees of $3,000 or more. Parade organizers rely heavily on fundraising partnerships with The Selectmen’s Cup sponsors and those organizations which often donate special one-of-a-kind Parade Auction items to help raise the money needed for what is Hingham’s largest and most loved traditions.
The Selectmen’s Cup has traditionally been a fun way to support the 4th of July Parade as well as an opportunity to meet and greet Hingham Town Officials in a casual environment. Participants enjoy the beautiful South Shore Country Club course and amenities, participate in some friendly rivalry, and commune over food and drink with old and new friends at day’s end. In the past, The Selectmen’s Cup and Parade Auction have raised $12,000 to $15,000.
The Parade Auction is going hi-tech for 2019, to make it easier for more people to participate. If people can’t attend The Selectmen’s Cup or the Parade Auction at the South Shore Country Club, they will be able to get in on the Auction action using a new on-line tool. “Individuals can review items on-line and place a bid from their phone or computer. You can even track the progress of your favorite auction items to see if you are the current highest bidder,” said Jim Murphy, Parade Committee, Chairman. Parade organizers hope to reach a wider audience, increase the fun, and spread the word about how important these fundraising events are to maintaining Hingham’s 4th of July Parade. To see this year’s Auction item list and make a bid go to: https://go.rallyup.com/4thofjulyparade
For additional information about The Selectmen’s Cup, Parade Auction, Sponsorship, Parade Swag, and/or participation in the Parade, go to: www.hingham-ma.gov/parade.