Every year on November 11th, the streets of Virginia Beach, VA, come alive with patriotic fervor as the city hosts its beloved Veterans Day Parade. This isn't your run-of-the-mill procession – it's a star-spangled extravaganza that turns the Oceanfront into a red, white, and blue playground for both young and old.
A Parade With a View
Picture this: You're standing on Atlantic Avenue, the salty sea breeze tousling your hair, waiting for the parade to kick off. At 9:00 AM sharp, the show begins. The route stretches from 16th Street to 19th Street, giving you plenty of spots to catch the action. And let's be honest, with the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop, this parade has a view that puts most others to shame.
The Cast of Characters
Who's in this patriotic procession, you ask? Well, buckle up because it's quite the lineup:
Military Marvels: Decorated veterans and active-duty service members march proudly, reminding us why we're all here in the first place.
Classic Cars: These beauties roll down the street, their polished chrome gleaming in the morning sun. It's like a time machine on wheels!
Local Heroes: Firefighters, police officers, and other community champions join the parade, proving that heroism comes in many uniforms.
Musical Maestros: High school marching bands and military ensembles provide the soundtrack to this patriotic party. Expect everything from "The Star-Spangled Banner" to "Yankee Doodle Dandy."
Grand Marshal: The Star of the Show
For 2024, the parade will be led by Chief Petty Officer Kathleen Goodall, USNR (Ret.). As Grand Marshal, she'll wave to the crowds like a patriotic queen. It's her moment to shine; we're all here for it.
United States Submarine Veterans: The Co-Stars
This year, the United States Submarine Veterans are getting their moment in the spotlight as the co-sponsor organization. These underwater warriors will bring a touch of "deep sea patriotism" to the surface-level festivities.
More Than Just a Parade
But wait, there's more! The Veterans Day celebrations in Virginia Beach don't stop when the last float passes by. After the parade, at 11:00 AM, there's a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tidewater Veterans Memorial. It's a moment to pause, reflect, and remember why we're celebrating in the first place.
And for those who worked up an appetite with all that flag-waving, there's a Veterans Day Luncheon to look forward to. Because nothing says "thank you for your service" quite like a good meal shared with friends and fellow patriots.
A Community Affair
What makes this parade special isn't just the floats or the flags – it's the people. Locals and tourists line the streets, cheering on the participants with gusto. Kids wave tiny American flags, veterans stand a little straighter as their branch's song plays, and everyone is united in a spirit of gratitude and pride for a few hours.
Weather Watch
Now, let's talk about the elephant on the beach – the weather. November in Virginia Beach can be a bit of a wild card. Some years, you might be parading in t-shirts and flip-flops. You might need to bundle up like guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in other years. The smart spectator comes prepared with sunscreen in one pocket and mittens in the other.
Parking and Practicalities
If you plan to join the festivities, remember that parking near the Oceanfront can be trickier than a military obstacle course. Consider carpooling or using public transportation. Or better yet, make a day of it and book a room at a nearby hotel. You can roll out of bed and right into the parade route.
A Parade for All Ages
One of the best things about the Virginia Beach Veterans Day Parade is its family-friendly nature. It's educational without being boring, patriotic without being preachy, and fun without being frivolous. Where else can kids see tanks and fire trucks hear military bands, and maybe even catch some candy, all while learning about the importance of honoring our veterans?
Capturing the Moment
In the age of social media, the parade has become a photographer's dream. From shots of flags silhouetted against the ocean to close-ups of veterans' proud faces, there's no shortage of Instagram-worthy moments. Just remember to look up from your phone occasionally – some memories are best captured with your eyes, not your camera.
The After-Party
Once the official events wrap up, the celebration continues. Local restaurants and bars often offer special deals for veterans, and the boardwalk buzzes with activity well into the evening. It's the perfect chance to chat with a veteran, thank them for their service, and maybe hear a story or two.
So, mark your calendars for November 11, 2024, and prepare to paint the town red, white, and blue. The Virginia Beach Veterans Day Parade isn't just an event – it's a full-blown, star-spangled celebration of heroism, community, and good old-fashioned American pride. Whether you're a local or just visiting, it's a spectacle that'll have you feeling patriotic from your head to your sandy toes.
Sources: gohrt.com, hrcvo.org, scoutingevent.com
Header Image Source: virginia.org
