About
The country's largest Veterans Day parade fills Fifth Avenue with more than 280 marching units, 20,000 marchers, 25 floats and 150 vehicles.
Veterans from World War II through Afghanistan roll and march up Fifth Avenue alongside restored military vehicles, service bands and colour guards, with 20,000 people in the line of march. It is a genuinely civic event rather than a tourist spectacle, and the crowd skews toward families of the people marching. If you want to see it at its most affecting, stand near the start where units are still forming up and greeting each other.
What to expect
A long procession of veterans' organisations, active-duty detachments, marching bands, floats and vintage vehicles moving north on Fifth Avenue. Crowds are much lighter than the Thanksgiving parade, so you can usually walk up and find curb space. Expect rolling street closures across Midtown.
Good to know
- Fifth Avenue is served by the B/D/F/M at Rockefeller Center and the 4/5/6 a few blocks east
- Crowds are far thinner than the Thanksgiving parade, so front-row curb space is realistic
- Free to watch and no ticket or registration is required
- Bring a flag or a sign if you are cheering for a specific unit; marchers do look
- Midtown crosstown traffic is disrupted, so plan to walk between avenues
- Suits older visitors and families with school-age kids interested in military history
Common questions
When is the 2026 Veterans Day Parade?
The parade returns on Wednesday, November 11, 2026.
Where does the parade take place?
The United War Veterans Council says the parade returns to Fifth Avenue in Manhattan.
How large is the parade?
The producer lists more than 280 marching units, 20,000 marchers, 25 floats, and 150 vehicles.
Who participates in the parade?
Veterans, military families, service organizations, community groups, and supporters from across the country take part.