Components & schedule

The following is an overview of the key components and schedule for the 2015 America’s Parade. More information about specific details will be coming soon. For inquiries or to join our email list, contact us.

The following is an overview of the key components and schedule for the 2015 America’s Parade. More information about specific details will be coming soon. For inquiries or to join our email list, contact us.


Purpose

The sole purpose of America’s Parade is to honor the service of our veterans and to salute our currently serving military. It is a non-partisan, non-political event, and may not be used as a platform for any other purpose or political agenda. Any individual or group that attempts to use the Parade as a forum for this purpose will be denied participation, and will forfeit any expenses incurred.

Theme

>>This year's Parade will commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the end of World War II and the 25th Anniversary of Desert Shield.

Featured Service Branch

>>The United States Navy is this year's featured military branch. The Army, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard are also represented.

Participating Groups

>>The parade features over 250 groups and 20,000+ participants, including veterans of all eras, military units, civic and youth groups (including Junior ROTC), businesses, and top high school marching bands from across America. Floats, military and vintage vehicles and other special elements add to the excitement, which is viewed by over half a million spectators. Participation in the parade is free to non-profit veterans' groups or organizations serving veterans; corporate veterans groups marching with branded signage/apparel/vehicles must provide sponsorship support. Contact our office for details.

Date/Time

The parade will occur on Wednesday, November 11 (Veterans Day), rain or shine. It starts at approximately 11:25 AM (at the conclusion of the Opening Ceremony, see below) and concludes around 3:30pm.

Route

The parade goes up Fifth Avenue, from 26th to 52nd Street. The route is 1.3 miles (approx. 35 minutes on foot).

 

Opening Ceremony

The parade is preceded by our traditional opening ceremony at the Eternal Light Monument (5th Avenue @ 24th Street, next to Madison Square Park. The ceremony begins at 10:00 AM and concludes with a wreath laying at 11:00 AM (The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month). Seating is available at the opening ceremony, with preference given to our disabled and elderly veterans.

Assembly Area

On the morning of the parade, groups will assemble in the streets next to and north of Madison Square Park (5th Ave. and 23rd St.). Specific assembly points/arrival times will be sent with your group’s confirmation materials upon acceptance of your application (Please note: staggered arrival times will again be implemented this year)

Viewing the Parade

Spectators (especially family & friends of participants) are encouraged to gather to show their support along the parade route (see above).

Review Stand

Our VIP’s and military Reviewing Officers will review the parade from our stage on 5th Avenue at 41st Street (in front of the NY Public Library). Bleacher seating for spectators is available near the Review Stand, with priority seating for elderly & disabled veterans.

Line of March

Participants will be informed of their position in the Line of March (order of the parade) in the weeks prior to the parade. Except in specific special cases, veterans groups in good standing and military will be given priority in the Line of March.