Excitement Builds for Birmingham’s Annual Veterans Day Parade!
The charming city of Birmingham, Alabama, is gearing up to honor those who have bravely served our nation in the 77th Annual National Veterans Day Parade! This beloved event will take place on Monday, November 11, from 1 PM to 4:30 PM, and it promises to be a vibrant celebration of our veterans, filled with color, music, and special tributes.
A Rich Tradition
Did you know that this parade is the longest-running Veterans Day parade in the country? Officially established by President Dwight Eisenhower in 1954, Veterans Day emerged as a successor to Armistice Day, first celebrated right here in Birmingham in 1947. It’s no wonder this city loves to commemorate our heroes in such a grand style!
Fun for Everyone
This year’s parade is sure to delight attendees of all ages. One of the stars of the show will be a riderless horse named Hank the Tank. This majestic animal, adorned with a decorative cover (or caparison as the pros call it), is a heartwarming symbol of military tradition. Hank will be led by the “cap walker,” Grant Hardy, who proudly serves with the Old Guard at Arlington Cemetery.
But that’s not all! Spectators will enjoy a mix of exciting performances from local Shriners, schools, veterans’ groups, and color guards. Expect to see high school bands and drill teams show off their skills, filled with pride for those they’ve come to honor.
Mark Your Calendars!
If you’re interested in attending, make sure to grab your spot along the parade route. The festivities will kick off on 18th Street by the Alabama Power building, travel past City Hall on 19th Street, and make their way to City Walk. This year’s route offers a fresh twist as it winds through several historic blocks of downtown Birmingham. It’s a fantastic opportunity to soak up the city’s rich history while honoring our veterans!
Can’t Attend in Person?
No worries! If you’re unable to make it to the parade in person, you can still participate from the comfort of your own home. The festivities will be live-streamed starting at 1:30 PM on the official parade website, nationalveteransday.org. This 30-minute delay will give you the chance to see all the action as it reaches the viewing stand at City Hall!
Weather Friendly!
Worried about the weather? Don’t be! The parade is set to go on rain or shine. The latest forecast indicates cloudy skies early in the day, but sunshine is expected to break through in the afternoon, with a comfortable high of 75°F and a low of 62°F. Even if the rain decides to make an appearance, parade-goers can stay dry under the covers of City Walk.
Get Involved!
Birmingham’s Veterans Day Parade isn’t just a day of remembrance—it’s a chance for the community to come together and support our military heroes. According to Mark Ryan, president of the National Veterans Day Foundation, “Each year, we aim to pay tribute to our nation’s Veterans who have made immense sacrifices for our freedom.” This year, they are excited to reach out to even more veterans than ever before.
If you’d like more information about the parade or want to stay updated, make sure to visit the parade’s Facebook page, and who knows—maybe you’ll run into some friendly faces along the way!
So, gather your friends and family, don your patriotic colors, and get ready to show your support for our veterans in Birmingham this November 11th! It’s going to be an unforgettable day filled with heart and gratitude.
