Southeast North Carolina Veterans Parade returns to downtown Wilmington Saturday
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The Southeast North Carolina Veterans Parade returns to downtown Wilmington Saturday, Nov. 7, with military units, marching bands and veterans taking part in the annual event.
Parade organizer Si Cantwell joined WWAY to discuss this year’s event, which will include a pre-parade performance and an information fair connecting veterans with local services.
The parade is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. along North Third Street, starting at Hanover Street and ending at Market Street.
Cantwell said this year’s parade is expected to be larger than previous years as organizers recognize the 250th anniversary of the United States.
“Parade’s gonna be great. It’s gonna be bigger than ever because of America’s 250th anniversary celebration,” Cantwell said.
The parade will feature military units, high school marching bands, pipe and drum groups, military vehicles and veterans marching along the route.
Cantwell said veterans are still welcome to participate, including those who may need transportation to take part.
“Any veteran is invited to come, and if you can’t walk in the parade, we’ll get you a ride,” Cantwell said.
Before the parade, a pre-show will begin at 10 a.m. featuring a Veterans Day brass quintet, the Beaches & Boots line dancers from Carolina Beach and UNCW’s all-female a cappella group, the Seabelles.
Spectators can watch from sidewalks along Third Street. Cantwell said the grandstands near Thalian Hall will serve as a central viewing area, though people can watch from anywhere along the route.
An information fair will also take place at The Eagles Dare, located near Third and Red Cross streets.
The fair begins at 11 a.m. and will continue into the afternoon, with organizations providing information about services available to veterans.
The event will also feature food from Port City Plates and live entertainment from The Clams following the parade.
Those interested in participating or learning more about the event can click here for more information.
