Annual Dogwood Parade signifies summer is near while also celebrating Quincy’s heritage

QUINCY — Men in Reliable Pest Solutions sweatshirts were seen shuffling down the expanse of Maine Street, plugging their noses and using a grabber tool to collect bug “poop” left behind by a large, car sized “bug.”

This wasn’t a nightmare, nor a scene in the latest block-buster, but rather an advertising gimmick put together by Reliable Pest Solutions for Saturday morning’s annual Dogwood Parade.

Reliable, like many other local businesses and organizations, took part in the parade, which shut down Maine Street. Kids and families lined the sidewalks with plastic bags and Easter baskets, clamoring to snatch the candies and free goodies tossed out by parade walkers. The parade offered a slice of Quincy life, with representatives present from the high school marching bands, veterans, Quincy pageantry, dance groups and local businesses. 

Bike ramps were jumped, toddlers in remote-control cars were driven, and dancing bandaids gave hugs. 

The Quincy Chamber Dogwood Parade, presented by Blessing Health System, had a theme this year of “Celebrating our Heritage: Educate, Celebrate, and Commemorate.” Many of this year’s floats took the historical nod to heart, with period costumes abound. 

Food trucks, vendors and rides were available at the Lorenzo Bull House at the corner of 16th and Maine. The area was popular after the parade, with guests milling amongst the stands, admiring the Quincy history presentations and buying wares.