Photos, Parade Winners From Falls Church Memorial Day Parade

FALLS CHURCH, VA— The 37th Annual Memorial Day Festival and Parade drew more than 12,000 people to the Little City on Monday, May 28 for a veterans' ceremony, packed parade lineup, entertainment, food, fun run, and vendors.

The day began with a Memorial Day ceremony with remarks by Retired Army Col. Ward Nickisch. The parade kicked off at 2 p.m. with more than 60 participants on Park Avenue.

“Thank you to all of the parade participants, judges, vendors, sponsors, and visitors who helped make this year’s Memorial Day Parade and Festival so memorable,” said Chris Madison, event manager, in a statement. “The City sends a special ‘Get Well Soon’ message to our 2018 Grand Marshal, Midge Wang, who was unable to attend the parade, but we’re sure was there with us in spirit!”

Here are the parade winners:

• Best Marching Band (High School): George C. Marshall "Marching Statesmen"
• Best Marching Band (Professional): Batala Washington
• Best Marching, Walking Group/Unit: Alma Bolivia
• Best Youth Group: McGrath Academy of Irish Dance
• Best Float: Goldfish Swim School
• Best Classic or Antique Car or Truck: American Lube Service Center
• Best Emergency/Fire Vehicle: Falls Church Volunteer Fire Department
• Best Military Group: VFW Post 9274

Here are some photos from the parade. The full ceremony and parade will be available on Youtube.

Leading off the parade was the American Legion Post 130.

Grand marshal Midge Wang was unable to make the parade.

We saw some animal friends too.

Memorial Day King and Queen

Catholic War Vets had American flags to give out

The Marshall High School band put on quite a show

The Falls Church Volunteer Fire Department greets spectators

The Mary Riley Styles Public Library staff made their carts extra patriotic.

Alma Boliviana kept the crowd entertained with dancing and their costumes.

The Washington Scottish Pipe Band was one of a few pipe bands performing.

South Lakes High School Army ROTC impressed the crowd with their march.

Concerned Citizens Against Gun Violence voiced their concerns about gun violence.

The all-woman African percussion band Batala Washington

Main images of Baroody Camps, Boy Scout Troop 349, Harley Owners Group-Fairfax Chapter, Kena Shrine Temple and Maha Yoga. All images by Patch editor Emily Leayman.