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
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Common questions
Who organises the parade?
The United War Veterans Council, which describes it as the largest Veterans Day parade in the country.
Where does it happen?
On Fifth Avenue in Manhattan. The council had not published the 2026 route detail or grand marshal as of mid-August.
More this weekend
