20,000 Expected For 12th Annual Palm Springs Vets Parade
Up to 20,000 people are expected to descend on Palm Springs Nov. 11 for the City’s 12th annual Veterans Day Parade – always a powerful and poignant event that commemorates those who have served to protect our freedoms.
With more than 11,000 U.S. Marines and Sailors stationed locally at the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in Twentynine Palms, the parade is personal for many Coachella Valley residents. In addition to the Marine Base connection, of course, many desert residents have family members serving overseas in Afghanistan or Iraq – or have lost a loved one fighting in defense of our country.
This year’s parade will kick off at 3:30 p.m. on Ramon Road and head north on Palm Canyon Drive to Alejo Road where it will end. The theme is “Honoring All Who Served.” Immediately following the parade, a post-parade concert featuring the Marine Corps Band from Twentynine Palms will kick off on the corner of Palm Canyon Drive and Amado Road -- followed by a fireworks finale.
Palm Canyon Drive from Ramon Road to Camino Parocela will be closed beginning at 11 a.m. through 5:30 p.m. for pre-stage. Palm Canyon from Ramon Road to Alejo Road will be closed from 2 p.m. to approximately 7 p.m. for the parade route.
The City of Palm Springs respects, honors, and appreciates all those who currently serve and those who have served our country for decades,” said Michele Cirone-Collier, the City’s Special Events Coordinator and Military Liaison. “Through our annual Veterans Day Parade we extend our sincere thanks for all that they have done and continue to do in protecting our country.”