MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MD — Two Montgomery County communities will mark Labor Day with parades this weekend, continuing traditions that draw families and community groups into the streets.
Gaithersburg and Kensington will both host their annual Labor Day celebrations Monday, with marching bands, floats, performers, emergency vehicles and other local organizations.
Gaithersburg will kick off its 88th annual Labor Day Parade at 10 a.m. in Olde Towne.
The parade, organized by the city and the Gaithersburg-Washington Grove Fire Department, will feature high school marching bands, dance groups, antique cars, fire engines, equestrian units and costumed characters, among a selection of community organizations.
Food and activities will be available from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Community Museum parking lot and Olde Towne Plaza off E. Diamond Avenue. The plaza is located at 1 S. Summit Ave.
John Sanchez, the city's 2026 distinguished resident, will serve as grand marshal. Patricia De Lima and Chepe, morning co-hosts of El Zol 107.9, will serve as emcees.
New Parade Route
Unlike previous years, the 2026 parade will follow a new route that steps off on Russell Avenue, continuing onto East Diamond Avenue before ending on Melvin Street in Olde Towne.
City officials say the route changes were made to improve the flow of the parade and provide better visibility for spectators.
Residents wanting to stay in the shade while catching sights of the parade can do so by walking from the transit station by Odendhal Avenue.
Parking
Organizers say free parking will be available at the Olde Towne Parking Garage at 112 Old Towne Ave. However, parking will be limited.
Parking for residents with disability placards or plates will be available behind the Victor Litz store off E. Diamond Avenue and behind the Shell gas station on S. Summit Avenue.
Shuttle service will only be made available for parade participants due to the new parade logistics, according to organizers. Parade units will park at the Gaithersburg elementary and middle schools, as well as the Girard Business Center.
Similar to the Gaithersburg festivities, Kensington will hold its 59th annual Labor Day parade and festival beginning at 10 a.m.
The parade will feature marching bands, dance groups, floats, equestrian units, ambassadors, and trucks from the Kensington Volunteer Fire Department.
It kicks off from Plyers Mill Road and travels down Connecticut Avenue before turning onto Baltimore Street, Fawcett Street, and Howard and Montgomery avenues. The parade portion of the festivities comes to an end at the Noyes Library on 10237 Carroll Place.
The celebration continues along Armory Avenue with a festival featuring food vendors, local organizations, live music, and bounce houses, among other family activities.
The event is scheduled to run through 2 p.m. and will take place rain or shine.
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