The Memorial Day parade is returning in DeKalb, and community groups are invited to join the procession.
The parade was paused in 2020 and 2021 in accordance with health official guidance for the COVID-19 pandemic. The DeKalb tradition resumes this year and will be held before the Memorial Day program on the Ellwood House lawn.
As preparations are made for the parade’s return, community members are encouraged to join the line-up.
Veterans’ organizations, youth sports teams, service groups, nonprofit organizations, clubs, and members of the faith community are just some of the groups that would make great additions to the parade. Since Memorial Day is a solemn holiday, participants are asked to refrain from displaying or carrying advertising material and political banners.
The parade line-up begins at 8:30 a.m. on Monday, May 30 at North Third & Locust Street. The parade steps off at 9 a.m. With lane reconfiguration construction planned for Lincoln Highway, the parade this year will go west down Locust Street before turning north on Linden Place.
The parade is followed by a program on the Ellwood House lawn and then free first-floor tours of the Ellwood Mansion.
Groups interested in joining the parade should fill out the participation form available here. The form should be return to City Hall by Friday, May 13.
The Memorial Day activities are a collaboration of the City of DeKalb, DeKalb Park District and Ellwood House Museum.
Questions may be directed to Scott Zak at scott.zak@cityofdekalb.com or 815-748-2396.