Kelpers Parade & Shake Rat Olympics
by James Preisinger
Back in 1972 a group of summer residents in Moclips decided to end their vacation on a wacky note. On the Sunday before Labor Day, they draped seaweed on their cars and paraded from Moclips to Pacific Beach. Thus began the tradition of the "Kelpers Parade," the wackiest parade this side of Humptulips. The parade kicks off a series of special events for September.
The festivities begin on Saturday with the Kiddie Parade at noon in Pacific
Beach. Candy and prizes will be awarded to all participants. Saturday night
features a street dance with live music at 2nd and Main in Pacific Beach.
Sunday's parade begins at noon on the beach in Moclips. Residents and visitors are encouraged to enter their own floats. The parade proceeds south on State Route 109, then south on first Street past the navy Base and down Main Street in Pacific Beach. Following the parade will be the "Shake Rat Olympics", where local shake cutters show off their unique skills. This is the only event of its kind anywhere.