Brooklyn’s oldest continuous Independence Day parade returns for its 119th year, honoring a tradition dating back to 1905.
File photo by Arthur de Gaeta
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New York City’s oldest continuously running Independence Day parade returns to Brooklyn this weekend for its 119th year.
The Brooklyn Independence Day Parade will be held Sunday, June 28. The celebration will begin with Mass at 11 a.m. at the Holy Name of Jesus Church, 245 Prospect Park West, followed by a presentation of honors. The parade route will open around noon after the presentation.
Sponsored by the Fourth Degree of the Knights of Columbus, the parade aims to bring people together around the values of patriotism and liberty for all. The organization cites “Pietas,” or love of God, love of country and love of neighbor, as central to its mission, according to its website.
“The Independence Day Parade is a very patriotic parade, because first we’re saluting the 250th anniversary of America, and we’re also commemorating god, honor and country,” said Ted General, member of the Brooklyn American Independence Day Parade Committee.
Young patients enjoy a past Independence Day parade.File photo by Jon Farina
The parade is typically New York City’s only annual Independence Day parade and has been held continuously since 1905. It was first staged on July 4, but in recent years the date was moved to the Sunday before the holiday, the only major change in its history. For members of the committee, the tradition is vital to uphold.
“The committee members and myself and others that are involved with the parade feel it’s very important to keep the legacy of the parade alive,” General said. “As well, the Knights of Columbus have a patriotic wing, called their Fourth Degree, and one of the things that they are encouraged to do is to promote patriotism and Americanism.”
The NYPD ceremonial color guard and FDNY color guard will make an appearance at the parade. Attendees can also expect to enjoy marching bands, American Revolution period actors, vintage automobiles and various community groups.