Roslindale Day Parade Steps Off This Sunday at 1 p.m.

In its 37th year the annual Roslindale Day Parade has become larger and larger through the years with paraders being from outside of the Roslindale neighborhood all wanting to celebrate the 02131.

This year's parade is scheduled to step off at 1 p.m. for this Sunday, October 14, from Washington Street in Roslindale Village. 

The parade will proceed up South Street, to Belgrade Avenue, to West Roxbury Parkway, to Centre Street, to South Street, and ending at Walter Street, according Tom Donahue of the Roslindale Day Parade Committee. 

This year’s theme is “Honoring Our Veterans” - with a special duckboat float to commemorate and honor the men and women who have served our country.

The Parade Committee has invited all local veterans to ride on the float, space permitting. This year's Grand Marshal is Brigadier General Gary W. Keefe, Acting Commander of the Massachusetts Air National Guard.

More than 20 motorcycles from Rolling Thunder – Massachusetts Chapter 1 will start the parade. The 215^th Army Band and the Massachusetts Maritime Academy Regimental Band and Honor Guard will highlight the Military and Veterans Division. 

The Parade lineup will have something for people (and dogs) of all ages. There will be a float for this year's Dog Mayor of Roslindale as chosen at the Roslindale Village Farmers' Market Dog Day. Enjoy the sounds of high school and university marching bands, two bagpipe bands, professional floats, duck boats, dance troupes, award-winning baton twirling groups, costumed cartoon characters, classic antique cars and the Blazing Saddles equestrian unit.

(Tomorrow Patch will publish the Parade Order.)

At Fallon Field fter the Parade there will be stage performances, refreshments, a children’s entertainer, community information tables, and other activities.

For more information visit www.roslindaleparade.com.