Our Ridgefield Memorial Day Parade scheduled for May 27, 2019, is one of the biggest events kicking off summer in Ridgefield, while honoring the men and women who have dedicated their lives to our country. This annual event features a plethora of civic organizations, marching bands, and veteran’s groups, even it’s own flyover. Each year, thousands from all over Fairfield County line up on both sides of Main Street, paying tribute to our veterans near and far, as we celebrate this great country.
Ridgefield’s American Legion Post 78 started organizing this parade in 1921, one year after they received their charter and has coordinated the parade details ever since. This is a comprehensive event, also requiring police to temporarily close off Main Street. Dozens of dedicated Legionnaires organize everyone for the parade, requiring extensively planned attention to details.
Marchers will begin lining up at 10 a.m. on the grounds of Jesse Lee church, located at the corner of Main Street and King Lane. All vehicles and floats will line up at 9:30 a.m., entering King Lane from High Ridge Avenue. The parade is scheduled to get underway at 11:30 a.m. King Lane will be a one-way street from 9:30 a.m. until the end of the parade.
Parents of participants may drop off their children in the staging area by entering King Lane from High Ridge only as a participant’s drop-off area. There will be absolutely no parking permitted in the staging area except for authorized vehicles. American Legion volunteers will be in all areas to ensure that children get to their designated area. Parade floats and vehicles will be directed by Legionnaires to their assigned position.
The parade will begin with opening remarks and a wreath-laying ceremony at the monument in front of Jesse Lee, including a military honors gun salute and the playing of taps. The parade ends at Ballard Park with a closing ceremony that includes short speeches by honored guests with patriotic music throughout the program.
If your organization would like to participate in the Ridgefield Memorial Day Parade, fill out our online registration and join the fun. Link to online registration form here.
