There will be many wonderful Memorial Day events and parades happening around the NYC metro area this weekend, including the Little Neck-Douglaston Memorial Day Parade in Queens on Memorial Day, Monday, May 29.
The parade, which is said to be one of the largest in the country, usually features around 100 participating organizations who march along its Northern Boulevard route. Around 2,000 marchers are expected to participate this year, all representatives from a variety of groups including:
- Boy Scout and Girl Scout Troops
- Military bands
- Local and out-of-state high-school marching bands
- Veterans groups
- NYC emergency service organizations, including the NYPD and FDNY
U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) Superintendent Joanna M. Nunan will serve as Grand Marshal of this year’s parade. According to the USMMA, she’ll be joined by the USMMA Regimental Band, “George M. Cohan’s Own,” the Color Guard, and four hundred members of the Regiment of Midshipmen.
What to Expect at the Little Neck-Douglaston Memorial Day Parade
Thousands of people—sometimes up to 10,000—gather at the parade each year, including families and kids of all ages who delight in seeing the many performances, bands, veterans groups and others participate in the annual event. Spectators will often bring lawn chairs, snacks and coolers to enjoy the parade while cheering on the marchers.
While the parade is a fun and festive occasion that draws a huge crowd every year, the true meaning of the event is never forgotten: To honor U.S. service members who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
Parade committee chair Tom Carty explained why Memorial Day and the parade–a mainstay in Queens for 96 years–is important to him.
“I think it’s an important holiday so that we really continue to take the time to remember that there are men and women out there who have given their lives so we can do things like this,” Carty, who’s a veteran himself, said. “With Memorial Day, there’s obviously a certain somber tone to it, but it is a day to be celebrated. I think it’s important that we all pause and take a second and remember why we have not just a three-day weekend, but why we have everything that we enjoy in this country. It’s because there are people willing to give up their lives for it.”
Founded in 1927, the parade is organized by the Little Neck-Douglaston Memorial Day Parade Committee, a group of volunteers who work hard each year to put the event together.
What You Need to Know About Attending the Little Neck-Douglaston Memorial Day Parade
Where does the Little Neck-Douglaston Memorial Day Parade start?
The parade starts at the Great Neck-Queens border. It steps off at Jayson Avenue and Northern Boulevard in Little Neck.
What time does it start?
Parade step off is at 2pm.
What is the route?
The parade follows a straight run along Northern Boulevard in Queens.
Where and when does it end?
The last marching unit arrives at the St. Anastasia Church parking lot on 245th St. in Douglaston around 4pm.
Are there places to park along the route?
Most spectators park off Northern Boulevard and walk down to the parade. And of course, many are local residents who walk from their houses.
TIP: There’s a viewing stand on Northern Boulevard across from a local library. That’s a great place to be because a lot of bands and dancing troops will stop and perform.
Is there a cost to attend?
No, the parade is free for all to enjoy.
For more information about the Little Neck -Douglaston Memorial Day Parade, visit the parade website at lndmemorialday.org.
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