Fifth Avenue closes to traffic as marching bands, floats, school groups and Italian-American clubs parade uptown in a long ribbon of red, white and green. It's a big-city holiday ritual with neighborhood roots, and it's back after the 2025 march was called off for a weather emergency. If you're in Midtown on the long weekend, grab a curb spot along the avenue and let the brass bands roll past.
What to expect
Expect crowds lining both sides of Fifth Avenue behind barricades, with marching bands, floats, dance troupes and civic groups moving uptown in a steady stream. Cross streets near the route close, and the sidewalks get denser the closer you are to the start. Flags and family groups line the barricades along the way.
Good to know
- Viewing gets easier the farther uptown you stand, especially along the stretch facing Central Park.
- Crosstown travel near the route is slow while it runs; the 4/5/6 and E/M trains get you close without driving.
- Bring a small folding stool or plan to stand, since curbside space fills early.
- Expect bus detours in Midtown while the avenue is closed.
- Families with strollers will have more room away from the step-off blocks.
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Common questions
Who organizes the Columbus Day Parade?
The Columbus Citizens Foundation, which also runs a Mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral, a wreath laying and a gala as part of its celebration weekend.
Where is the best place to watch?
Anywhere along Fifth Avenue works; the uptown blocks alongside Central Park tend to be less crowded than the Midtown stretch near the start.
Did the parade happen last year?
No. The organizer says the 2025 parade did not go forward because of a weather-related state of emergency, though other weekend events did.
