Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday in May, is a solemn day to remember the men and women who died in military service to the United States. Originally known as Decoration Day, the tradition began in the aftermath of the Civil War as communities gathered to lay flowers on the graves of fallen soldiers. It became a federal holiday in 1971 and now marks both a national day of reflection and the unofficial start of summer. This year Memorial Day parades will be celebrating our country’s 250th anniversary Monday, May 25.
Communities throughout Delaware County will hold parades and ceremonies to honor the sacrifices of America’s service members.
Where and when to observe:
Andes
The Andes Memorial Day parade stages at 10 a.m. on Upper Main Street (at Allison Oil) and kicks off at approximately 10:30 a.m., proceeding down Main Street to Bohlmann Park for a traditional ceremony and salute.
Hobart on Main Street at 9 a.m. followed by a memorial service behind the Hobart Fire Dept at the military memorial. Line up for the parade will begin at 9 a.m. in Hobart at the town hall/fire hall.
South Kortright on Main Street at 10 a.m. at the Catholic Church, followed by memorial service at the Community Church. Chicken barbecue and bake sale will be held at South Kortright Community Church.
Bloomville on Main Street at 11 a.m. starting at the town hall, followed by a memorial service at Riverside Cemetery. Town of Kortright Historian Margaret Kenyon from Bloomville will speak. After the service, the community is welcome to the Bloomville Community Park, School Street, Bloomville for softball and baseball games, dish to pass food and drinks for everyone to enjoy. All are welcome-come and enjoy the day at the park.
These parades will feature the South Kortright High School Marching Band, local military color guard, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, antique cars, and fire departments from Bloomville, Hobart and South Kortright. Anyone wanting to participate in the parades please attend.
Delhi lineup at 11 a.m., parade starts at 12 p.m. Chicken dinners will be available at the Delhi American Legion.
Downsville’s Parade - line up for the parade begins at 9:30 a.m. at the Downsville Central School (DCS) parking lot, and the parade steps off at 10 a.m. There will be a Memorial Day ceremony at Paige Cemetery. Parade will reform after the ceremony and march to James S. Moore Post 167 American Legion Hall. Immediately upon arrival there will be a dedication of the newest honor pavers, float judging, bike judging and refreshments. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will take place in the gymnasium at DCS.
Fleishmanns/Margaretville: The Fleischmanns and Margaretville Memorial Day parades will take place on Monday, May 25. Fleischmanns hosts its parade at 9 a.m., starting at the firehouse and marching down Main Street. The Margaretville parade follows shortly after at 11 a.m..
Franklin/Treadwell: The Ouleout Valley Post #1689 American Legion in Franklin will honor our veterans Monday, May 25. The Treadwell village parade will take off at 9 a.m. from Church Street and will proceed to the Crouton Cemetery. A program will be conducted and will conclude with a 21-gun salute provided by the Treadwell Militia.
The Franklin village parade will take off at 11 a.m. from the American Legion on Institute Street and will proceed to the Ouleout Valley Cemetery. A program will be conducted, and will conclude with a 21-gun salute, provided by the Treadwell Militia. The American Legion will have its annual chicken barbecue starting at noon with chicken halves - takeout only. Preorders for chicken can be made by calling Charleen Taylor at 607-386-9519.
Masonville/Sidney/Sidney Center: The American Legion and VFW in Sidney march at 9 a.m., Sidney Center at 10:30 and Masonville at 12 a.m.
Stamford: The Stamford American Legion Post 1379 parade is set for May 25, step off will be at 10 a.m. from the catholic church in town.
Unadilla Memorial Day parade will begin at 10:30 a.m. Line up at Community House Lawn 193 Main Street.
Walton: Parade begins at 10 a.m. Ceremony at Veterans Plaza at 10:05. Ceremony at World War II Memorial at approximately 10:30 a.m. Ceremonies in Walton Cemetery at approximately 10:50 a.m. Lunch provided by Post 323 ALA at Walton Vets Club following ceremonies. Lunch is free for parade participants, others are asked to make a freewill offering.
