By Wade Sheldon, Tulalip News
The Tulalip Tribes were prominently featured during the 94th Annual Strawberry Festival Grand Parade on Saturday, June 20, as thousands of spectators lined State Street in downtown Marysville to celebrate one of Snohomish County’s most beloved summer traditions.
This year’s parade carried special significance for Tulalip as Board of Directors Chairman Hazen Shopbell was recognized during the event. Riding through the parade route in a vintage convertible, Chairman Shopbell waved to the crowd as community members and visitors applauded his leadership and service to the Tulalip Tribes.
Also representing Tulalip was 2026 Strawberry Festival Queen Mone’t Clemens. The Tulalip tribal member rode atop a strawberry-themed float, greeting spectators throughout the parade route. As Strawberry Festival Queen, Clemens has spent the past year serving as an ambassador for both Marysville and Tulalip while participating in community events across the region.
Representing the Tulalip Senior Center, King Billy Fryberg and Queen Sharleen Fryberg rode through downtown Marysville, receiving cheers and waves from the crowd.
Throughout the morning, Tulalip’s presence was evident in a variety of parade entries. Tulalip Bay Fire Department crews showcased their equipment and greeted families from aboard a ladder truck, while local youth participated with marching bands, cheerleading, and community organizations.
For generations, the Strawberry Festival has brought together residents from Marysville, Tulalip, and communities throughout Snohomish County. This year’s parade once again showcased the strong connection between the neighboring communities while highlighting the pride and participation of Tulalip tribal members of all ages.