Isle of Palms changes golf cart parade rules ahead of 4th of July

ISLE OF PALMS, S.C. (WCBD)– We are just three days from the Fourth of July, which means celebrations across the Lowcountry. One of the most anticipated events on the Isle of Palms is the golf cart parade that will take place on Thursday. The event draws out thousands of people every year, and this year, with the city in charge, it could look different. 

“The golf cart parade has been just a tradition for the Fourth of July, bringing the community together. It has grown over the years,” said Julie Nestler, a resident of the Isle of Palms.

What started as a miniature golf cart parade with just a few neighbors celebrating the holiday now draws in thousands of people, and with the event come safety concerns. Officers said people hit by frozen water balloons reported some injuries. Water balloons are banned this year, and people are asked to use extra caution when spraying people with water guns. Another concern is the trash that sticks around long after the parade ends.

“We had officers cleaning for hours, and some volunteers helped clean up the roads from that debris in a small piece of rubber those going to the storm drains and get in our waterways, and that’s just not great for our ecosystems,” said Sgt Matt Storen, with the Isle of Palms Police Department.

Instead of throwing candy to onlookers, people must pass it out to ensure it doesn’t end up on the ground. Neighbors say they’re still looking forward to the parade and believe the changes will ensure everyone has fun and stays safe. 

“I hope that everyone makes smart choices. I hope that everyone stays safe. I hope everyone stays hydrated, and I support one another within our community,” said Nestler.

Golf carts can start lining up at 9:30 a.m. and the parade will begin at 10 a.m. For more information on what you can and can not bring to the parade, click the link below.

4th of July Golf Cart Parade | City of Isle of Palms, SC (iop.net)