There’s something magical about a hometown parade, the marching bands, the giant balloons floating down the avenue, the laughter that fills the air. The New Rochelle Thanksgiving Parade captures all of that and more. It’s the city at its most festive, coming together to celebrate the season in a way that feels joyful, familiar, and uniquely local.
The Parade at a Glance
This year’s parade steps off at 10:00 AM on Saturday, November 22, beginning at Eastchester Road and North Avenue and continuing downtown toward Bonnefoy Place. Every year, it transforms the heart of New Rochelle into a scene straight out of a holiday movie, streets lined with families, kids waving at passing floats, and the sound of drums echoing between buildings.
Expect a morning filled with color and movement. Giant balloons drift above the crowd while local marching bands and dance groups bring music and rhythm to the streets. Community organizations, schools, and small businesses join in too, each one adding something special to the mix. And, of course, no Thanksgiving parade would be complete without Santa making an appearance to officially welcome the holiday season.
For the best views, many locals head toward Anderson Plaza, where the parade slows down for performances and photo-worthy moments. It’s where the music seems a little louder, the energy a little higher, and the smiles a little brighter.
Make a Morning of It
One of the best parts about the parade is that it turns a Saturday morning into a full community outing. Downtown fills with people grabbing coffee, chatting with neighbors, and sharing the excitement as the first floats start to roll in. There’s something comforting about the familiar faces, the crisp November air, the hum of anticipation that builds as the drums start in the distance.
If you’re planning to go, it’s worth arriving a little early. Bring a warm drink, bundle up, and find your spot along North Avenue before the crowds settle in. Afterward, downtown offers the perfect excuse to linger for brunch with friends, a quick stroll through the shops, or just some time to soak in the atmosphere before the city returns to its usual weekend rhythm.
A Celebration of Community
Every parade feels like a reflection of the city that hosts it, and New Rochelle’s is no exception. What stands out most isn’t just the music or the floats, but the sense of togetherness that fills the day. You see students marching alongside teachers, families cheering for familiar faces, and neighbors exchanging warm hellos. It’s the kind of event that reminds you just how much pride and heart this community carries
Every year, the New Rochelle Thanksgiving Parade feels like a gentle reminder of what makes this city feel like home. It’s not just the spectacle or the tradition, it’s the people. The way the community shows up, rain or shine, to wave at passing floats and welcome the season together.
So mark your calendar, bundle up, and head downtown. We’ll see you on North Avenue, right where the holiday spirit begins..
