Memorial Day Parade

The longest-running eastside parade in Cleveland, the City of University Heights has proudly held its annual Memorial Day Parade since 1966 (with the exception of 2020 when it was canceled due to the pandemic).

In 2023, the parade will once again step off at 11 a.m. on Memorial Day, May 29, with a memorial ceremony immediately following. Community groups are invited to participate. Recognizing how our community has overcome difficult challenges and continues to standup for our values, this year’s theme is RESILIENCE.

New this year is an opportunity to work with artist Robin VanLear, Cleveland Arts Prize winner and co-creator of Parade the Circle, to help you express this year’s theme and add unique personality to your unit. We will hold two community workshops where up to three leaders of your unit can work with Robin to create and build costumes for your members to wear during the parade. There is a $25 fee to participate in a workshop and space is limited. Sign up for a specific workshop on the parade application form.

Route change: Construction at John Carroll University has necessitated a small change in the route. The parade will step off at 11 a.m., on Silsby Road, between Ashurst and Canterbury roads as before, and terminate at Gearity Professional Development School.