Jacksonville’s annual Veterans Day Parade is set to step off at 11:01 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 11, in downtown Jacksonville.
The approximately 1.32-mile route begins on Water Street in front of the Jacksonville Center for the Performing Arts. It travels north on Hogan Street, turns east on Bay Street, then heads north on A. Philip Randolph Boulevard, ending just past East Adams Street near VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena. Viewing is available along Water Street, Hogan Street and Bay Street.
Mayor Donna Deegan is expected to participate alongside honorary grand marshal Dr. John F. Lovejoy, a Vietnam veteran. The parade lineup also includes senior military officials, active-duty and retired military units, veterans groups, local school groups and ornamental floats.
Drivers should expect street closures beginning at 7 a.m. on portions of Park Street, Lee Street and Water Street. Full closures begin at 10 a.m. on sections including Main Street, Riverside Avenue, the Acosta Bridge ramps, Newnan Street, Forsyth Street, Monroe Street, A. Philip Randolph Boulevard and Gator Bowl Boulevard. Rolling closures will also begin at 10 a.m. at intersections along and near the parade route. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office will direct traffic at intersections.
Street-parking meters on the parade route were scheduled to be bagged beginning Tuesday, Nov. 10, including portions of Water, Hogan, Bay and A. Philip Randolph Boulevard. The event is planned rain or shine; the city said it will issue public notifications if severe weather creates a safety concern.
Spectators are encouraged to wear red, white and blue and bring flags in support of veterans.
