After 20 years of bringing joy, laughter, and Rose Festival spirit to Portland as the Rose Festival’s beloved Clown Prince, Angel Ocasio has been named Grand Marshal of the 2026 Fred Meyer Junior Parade.
Angel has become one of the most recognizable and cherished faces of the Rose Festival, creating unforgettable memories for generations of families through parades, community events, school visits, and appearances across the region. His energy, heart, and commitment to the community have made him a true ambassador for the Rose Festival and the city of Portland.
The surprise announcement was made live on-air during a recent AM Northwest segment celebrating the Fred Meyer Junior Parade and the creativity of the children who participate each year.
“As the Clown Prince, Angel has spent two decades helping kids feel seen, celebrated, and included in the magic of the Rose Festival,” said Jeremy Emerson. “It feels only fitting that someone who has dedicated so much of himself to creating joy for others will now lead a parade that is truly by kids, for kids.”
The Fred Meyer Junior Parade takes place Saturday, May 30 in Portland’s Hollywood District. The parade celebrates imagination and creativity with decorated bikes, wagons, costumes, and kid-powered floats created by children and families from across the community.
“I’m incredibly honored and honestly overwhelmed,” said Angel Ocasio. “The Rose Festival has been a huge part of my life for 20 years, and getting to serve as Grand Marshal for the Junior Parade — a parade centered around kids and community — means the world to me.”
Learn more about the
Fred Meyer Junior Parade.