Balboa Island Parade now accepting applications

Balboa Island residents: Get ready to rock.

The annual Balboa Island Parade, organized by the Balboa Island Improvement Assn., returns for the 19th year June 3. This year features a throwback 1950s theme of "Rock Around the Island."

"This year, we wanted to keep it a little more island friendly, more localized, to get more families involved," parade Chairman Jack Callahan said. "We're also trying to get each of the island streets to have a float to create a fun competition between them."

The parade is open to all — regardless of where you call home — but, parade organizers are laser focusing on island residents to get more locals involved, Callahan said.

Applications to join are due May 6, are free and can be found at Balboa Island stores Even Sisters, Hershey's Market, Martha's Bookstore, Lora Vance Realty, Persimmon Tree and Wilma's, online at http://www.balboa-island.org or email BIParade@att.net.

If you don't feel up to creating an original float, grab your dog, hop on a bike, pull your child in a wagon and team up with friends for the annual event, Callahan said.

Even Callahan will take a place in the parade. For the last several years, the chairman has helped lead the opening of the parade while wearing a Hawaiian outfit — complete with grass skirt and coconut bra.

"I get a lot of very positive reactions," he said with a laugh. "It's kind of wild and crazy but, it's all been positive. We just want it to be fun and memorable for everyone."

sarah.peters@latimes.com

Twitter: @speters01