Jacksonville Veterans Day Parade 2026: What you need to know

Jacksonville’s annual Veterans Day Parade steps off Wednesday, Nov. 11, at 11:01 a.m. in downtown Jacksonville. Here’s everything you need to know before you go.When and where is it?The parade begins on Water Street in front of the Jacksonville Center of the Performing Arts. It heads north on Hogan Street, turns east on Bay Street, then north on A. Philip Randolph Boulevard, finishing just past East Adams Street in front of VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena. The route is about 1.32 miles.Spectators can watch from multiple points along Water Street, Hogan Street, and Bay Street.Who is in the parade?Mayor Donna Deegan will participate, along with Honorary Grand Marshal Dr. John F. Lovejoy, a Vietnam veteran. The parade also features senior military officials, active-duty and retired military units, veteran groups, local school groups, and ornamental floats.What about road closures?Several streets will be closed ahead of the parade. Plan your route early.Starting at 7 a.m.:Park Street: Stone