Bonitafest Twilight Trail Parade: A Whimsical South Bay Tradition
Great news: Chula Vista, the Bonitafest event, is back, bringing all the small-town charm and excitement the South Bay community has grown to love! Whether trotting on horseback, parading with your potbelly pig, or simply cheering on the sidelines, this year’s Twilight Trail Parade promises to be a delightful evening for all. Even though this event has scaled back dramatically, it is still cool to see the event is happening again.
The Twilight Trail Parade: Where Everyone’s Invited
Mark your calendars for September 21 at 6 p.m. and head to the Sunnyside Saddle Club arena in Rohr Park. This year’s parade is not just for humans—horses, goats, dogs, llamas, and even potbelly pigs are all welcome to join in on the fun. Participants can walk, ride bikes, or saddle up for the one-mile journey along the scenic trail that encircles the Chula Vista Municipal Golf Course. The spirited Sunnyside School Mighty Bulldogs Marching Band will lead the charge, setting the perfect tone for this community celebration.
A Nostalgic Nod to the Past
Many of us fondly remember the days when Bonitafest was a grand affair, with people lining Bonita Road, ready for an evening of parades, live entertainment, and endless fun. Back in 2006, the event was a massive hit, with the festival following the parade in full swing. While the Bonitafest has evolved, the spirit remains the same, and there’s hope that with the proper support, we might see a return to those bustling days. Until then, the Twilight Trail Parade remains a beloved tradition, keeping the community’s heart beating strong.
“I remember marching in the parade with the Bonita Vista High School Band; it was so much fun being part of the event and seeing everyone come out. I hope someone can bring back those days.” Explained Janet as she cheered on the parade last year.
The Parade Is Just the Beginning
The fun doesn’t stop when the parade ends! As the procession winds down at the Bonita-Sunnyside Library parking lot, the Bonitafest Performing Arts Festival begins. From 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., a diverse lineup of South County talent will take the stage, with the nationally renowned Music Machine and Sound Unlimited show choirs from Bonita Vista High School headlining the evening. It’s an evening of performances you won’t want to miss—just make sure to grab a good spot early!
A Spotlight on Young Talent
This year’s parade is co-chaired by two outstanding young women, Nicolette Luna, and Lyra Rhodes, both recent Bonita Vista High School graduates heading to UC Berkeley. Nicolette, in particular, has made waves as the former Editor-in-Chief of Southwestern College’s El Sol Magazine, leading her team to national collegiate championships and even a collegiate Pulitzer Prize. Bonitafest General Chairman Dr. Max Branscomb praises her as a gifted leader and journalist, and with her and Lyra at the helm, there’s no doubt that this year’s event will be nothing short of spectacular.
Don’t Miss the Bonitafest Melodrama
To cap off the festivities, make sure to catch the 47th annual Bonitafest Melodrama, “Thin Skins and Hayseeds,” running from September 25-28 at the Sweetwater Church Theater. This award-winning musical-comedy brings to life the dramatic events of the Great Sweetwater Valley Flood of 1916 in a fun and engaging way. Curtain time is at 7:30 p.m., so grab your tickets early by calling (619) 850-7126.
Join the Fun and Keep the Tradition Alive
Bonitafest is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of our diverse South Bay community and its rich traditions. Whether you’re participating in the parade, enjoying the performances, or watching the melodrama, you’re part of something special. Let’s come together to support this wonderful tradition and keep the spirit of Bonitafest alive for years to come!
You can follow the Bonitafest on their Instagram account to learn more about all of the events leading up to the parade.
