John Chadwick Named Grand Marshal for the 2025 Celebrate Kirkland

Published on June 05, 2025

Media Contact:
David Wolbrecht
Communications Program Manager
dwolbrecht@kirklandwa.gov
(425) 587-3021

KIRKLAND, Wash. – The City of Kirkland is proud to announce longtime Little League volunteer John Chadwick as the 2025 Grand Marshal for the 26th Annual Celebrate Kirkland 4th of July Parade. 

“John has given so much of himself to this community and to generations of kids who found belonging and purpose through Little League,” said Kirkland Deputy Mayor Jay Arnold. “Having him as Grand Marshal for the Celebrate Kirkland Parade is a home run for Kirkland and perfect way to honor all he’s done.” 

Chadwick’s extraordinary dedication to youth sports spans more than five decades. During this time, he served 32 years as District Administrator for Washington District 9 and over two decades as Director of the Junior League Softball World Series. The tournament, which he helped launch and bring to Kirkland in 1998, has grown into an international event that draws teams from across the country and around the world. His leadership has elevated the visibility of girls sports and expanded meaningful opportunities for young athletes both locally and globally. 

“One of my favorite moments is when a former player stops me and says, ‘Hi Mr. Chadwick, I played in the Little League while you were District Administrator, and I enjoyed it very much,’” said John Chadwick. “As adults, we need to remember it's all about the kids. That’s what makes even a small role in Little League feel so rewarding.” 

Beyond his work with the World Series, Chadwick helped establish Senior Baseball and Little League Softball programs and mentored countless volunteers across the Eastside. His vision and hard work helped grow local leagues and cement Kirkland’s reputation as a city that supports youth, equity, and community spirit. He continues to serve as Director Emeritus of the Junior League Softball World Series Committee. Throughout his journey, John’s late wife Ann volunteered alongside him, offering years of dedicated service and setting an example of community involvement. 

The Junior League Softball World Series kicks off on July 25, 2025 with a Celebrity Game and Movie in the Park (“A League of Their Own”). 

The City invites the community to join in the celebration on July 4 and give a warm wave of appreciation to Grand Marshal John Chadwick as he leads the parade through downtown Kirkland. 

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