On November 9, the streets of downtown Las Cruces will resonate with more than just the usual sounds of city bustle. The 28th annual Las Cruces Veterans Day Parade is set to honor "Veteran First Responders" in a celebratory procession that will kick off at 11 a.m. According to the City of Las Cruces, the parade is a staple event, fostering community spirit and tribute to service members who have donned multiple hats as both veterans and first responders.
The starting signal for this homage to bravery and service is somewhat traditional yet explosive, a cannon blast, confirmed to be a blank, promises to herald the parade's commencement. However, event organizers caution individuals with sensitive hearing: An unexpected bang can startle when a cannon is fired near the reviewing stand which is there to mark the parade's start, not an emergency. The parade will make its circuit of honor from the corner of Main Street and Lohman Avenue, march to the roundabout near City Hall, and then loop back via Water Street.
To catch the parade in full swing, attendees should aim for the reviewing stand at Main and Las Cruces Avenue, where opening ceremonies are due to begin at 10:30 a.m. This prelude to the main event will include not only opening remarks but also the presentation of medals to the parade's Grand Marshals, recognizing their dual roles in military and emergency services. The mix of pride and pomp sets just the right tone to appreciate the sacrifices made by these stalwart individuals.
Main Street, along with several feed-in streets, will be closed off from the early hours of the morning to facilitate the parade route. Closing at 6 a.m., these thoroughfares will make way for veterans, first responders, and community members to share the stage. The city has prepared parking solutions for the day, with lots available at the El Paso Electric lot, the Doña Ana County Judicial Complex, Thomas Branigan Library, and scattered sites around the downtown area, between Main and Church Street.
