Burlington Memorial Day Parade

Burlington Memorial Day Parade is an annual civic and military procession held in Burlington, Vermont to honor the nation's fallen service members. The event, organized by local Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion posts, features marching units, veterans, military vehicles, and community groups. It is a cornerstone of the city's Memorial Day observances, drawing participants and spectators from across Chittenden County and the wider New England region.

History

The origins of the parade are intertwined with the national establishment of Memorial Day following the American Civil War, with early commemorations in Burlington likely organized by Grand Army of the Republic posts. The modern parade tradition was formalized in the mid-20th century by local veterans' organizations, notably VFW Post 782 and American Legion Post 91. Its continuity has been maintained through the efforts of groups like the Burlington Veterans Council, with the event growing in scale following conflicts such as World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. The parade has been held annually except during periods of national crisis, such as the 1918 influenza pandemic and World War II home front restrictions.

Route and participants

The procession traditionally begins near the intersection of Main Street and South Winooski Avenue, proceeding north past Burlington City Hall and the Burlington Town Center. The route continues along Church Street Marketplace, a pedestrian mall, concluding at Battery Park which overlooks Lake Champlain. Primary participants include color guards from Fort Ethan Allen and the Vermont National Guard, alongside units from the Burlington Police Department and Burlington Fire Department. The parade also features marching bands from Burlington High School and the University of Vermont, vintage vehicles from the Green Mountain Chapter of the Military Vehicle Preservation Association, and floats from organizations like the Burlington Rotary Club and Boy Scouts of America.

Ceremonies and observances

The parade is preceded by a memorial service, often held at the Ethan Allen Cemetery or the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph, Vermont. A central ceremony takes place at the conclusion of the march in Battery Park, featuring the laying of wreaths at the Battle of Plattsburgh monument and the Spanish–American War memorial. This ceremony includes remarks from officials such as the Mayor of Burlington and commanders from the Vermont National Guard, the playing of Taps by a bugler, and rifle volleys by an honor guard. Additional observances are held concurrently at the Naval Reserve Center Burlington and the Burlington International Airport, which hosts static displays of aircraft from the Vermont Air National Guard.

Community involvement

The event is supported by municipal services from the City of Burlington and sponsorship from local businesses like Ben & Jerry's and Seventh Generation. Volunteer coordination is managed by the Burlington Parks, Recreation & Waterfront department and the Lake Champlain Regional Chamber of Commerce. Civic groups such as the Burlington Lions Club and the Elks Lodge provide logistical support, while youth organizations including the Girl Scouts of the Green and White Mountains and Burlington Little League participate in the march. Local media outlets, including the Burlington Free Press and WCAX-TV, provide extensive coverage, and the Fletcher Free Library often hosts related historical exhibits.

Notable occurrences

In 1991, the parade served as a welcome-home celebration for units of the Vermont National Guard returning from Operation Desert Storm. The 2002 observance, following the September 11 attacks, was one of the largest on record, featuring a special tribute to first responders. In 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the in-person parade was replaced by a televised "Parade of Heroes" on WFFF-TV, showcasing archival footage and interviews with veterans. The 2023 parade was led by the 82nd Airborne Division band, visiting from Fort Bragg, and included a flyover by F-35 Lightning II aircraft from the 158th Fighter Wing based at Burlington Air National Guard Base.

Category:Memorial Day parades in the United States Category:Recurring events established in the 20th century Category:Festivals in Burlington, Vermont Category:May events in the United States