George Hale Named Bangor 2026 Fourth of July Parade Grand Marshal

George Hale is an iconic legend here in Maine. He’s been on the radio and TV for over 70 years, hosting talk shows, calling University of Maine games, and covering local sports. Basically, if you grew up in Maine, you’ve probably heard him on the air.

For more than 20 years, he co-hosted the morning show on WVOM‑FM, bringing his personality, humor, and insight to listeners every day. Even in his 90s, he was still going strong, but back in March, the station let him go while he was on vacation. People across Maine showed a lot of love and respect for him, and there were even tribute events, like a special one-night revival of The Nite Show. Hale’s voice and presence have been a big part of Maine broadcasting for generations.

He has been chosen to serve as Grand Marshal of this year’s Bangor Fourth of July Parade, a special honor recognizing his enormous impact on the local community and decades of work in Maine media.

On July 4th, as we celebrate America's 250th birthday, a veteran will lead our parade. Just as it should be.

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Bangor’s Fourth of July Parade will kick off at 10:00 AM, starting on Acme Road in Brewer and making its way across the Chamberlain Bridge into downtown Bangor. The parade rolls along Main Street and finishes up near Exchange Street, with announcements and action happening around Main and State Streets.

The day actually starts a bit earlier with the Walter Hunt 4th of July 3K Road Race at 9:45 AM, which takes runners along part of the parade route. After the floats and marching bands pass by, the fun moves to the Bangor Waterfront with food trucks, music, and plenty of family-friendly activities. And of course, no Fourth of July would be complete without fireworks, the night ends with a big show over the Penobscot River around 9:30 PM that can be seen from both Bangor and Brewer.

Congratulations, George! Thank you for everything...