Memorial Day Parade - Portsmouth

Description

Memorial Day Parade

Monday, May 25 at 1 p.m.

The City of Portsmouth’s Memorial Day Parade returns in 2026 to honor those who have lost their lives in services of this country, as well as to commemorate the signing of the Declaration of Independence 250 years ago.

GENERAL PARADE INFO:

• Parade steps off at 1 p.m. from Parrott Ave (Library parking lot)

• Spectators: The parade route starts at the Richards Ave/Parrott Ave intersection and goes along Richards Ave to South Cemetery. The parade will pause in the cemetery for the laying of the wreath at Logan’s Orders Monument. The parade continues out of the cemetery to South Street and turns right towards Junkins Ave. The parade will turn down Junkins Ave and end at South Mill Pond.

• Participants: If you would like to participate in the parade, pre-registration is required by emailing Brinn Sullivan at bsullivan@portsmouthnh.gov. All participants will be asked to complete a registration form. Please keep in mind the purpose and solemnity of the Memorial Parade when considering your entry. Limited vehicle participation will be allowed.

• Parade Route Residents: The parade will be walking past your font doors and porches, and we sincerely hope that you will help us reflect the heart of Portsmouth by decorating for and watching the parade. The City does not host a Memorial Day Parade every year so this is something special. Additionally, a parade along Richards Ave and this portion of South Street is also rare and special. We hope you will join us in honoring this day.
  • Parts of Richards Ave and South Street will be closed to parking and traffic during the parade. Complete details closer to parade day.

• Ceremony info: At Logan’s Orders Monument in South Cemetery, the parade will pause while a wreath is laid to commemorate the order that established a national observance to honor the memory of those who died in service of their country. The parade will commence after a salute by the Honor Guard. There will not be a speaking portion of this ceremony.