WeHa's Park Road Parade A Massive Celebration

Town of West Hartford

WEST HARTFORD, CT — West Hartford's annual Park Road Parade is this Saturday, Oct. 7, but one of the town's largest civic celebrations will feature much more than just that.

The one-hour parade steps off at 10:30 a.m. at Ringgold Street and ends at South Quaker Lane.

The 2023 Grand Marshal is iHeartRadio’s The River 105.9 personality Renée DiNino.

The parade will be dedicated to the late Rob Rowlson, a lifelong resident of West Hartford, loving family man, business advocate and Park Road supporter. He died in 2022.

The parade, however, is just part of that days festivities. Other events going on that day are:

Fun Run

The first time ever, the "GO the Extra Mile" fun run will be held in coordination with Fleet Feet of West Hartford and sponsored by GO Media, prior to the start of the parade.

Registration fee is $20, all proceeds benefit the parade. REGISTER HERE.

The overall male and female winners will be crowned "King & Queen of Park Road" and get to ride in the parade.

All registered participants will enjoy a post-run pancake buffet hosted by A.C. Petersen Farms restaurant & Victus Coffee.

'Dancing in the Streets'

Before the parade will unveil marchers, the event will showcase dancers with a little "Dancing in the Streets.”

Guests are invited to join dance teacher/choreographer Darlene Zoller for a dance party on Park Road in front of the Park Road Parade Viewing Stand (near Stebens Auto).

Dancing will take over Park Road just after the completion of the Fun Run (approximately 10:15 a.m.).

"We all know we're better when we're dancing so let's dance," wrote event organizers. "Everyone is invited."

Playhouse on Park

Stop by Playhouse on Park at 244 Park Road on Parade Day on Saturday, Oct. 7, and join in on the fun.

Public restrooms are available all day starting at 9 a.m.

From 9 a.m. to noon, guests can stop by the playhouse and take a tour of the theater (including backstage areas).

"Learn a little bit about the history of the space and what’s happening now," wrote the town. "When you arrive, head on in and tell the box office you are here for a tour."

In addition, many area businesses will have specials and local groups will have a variety of events as well.

For more information on the Park Road Parade, click on this link.