The Little Neck-Douglaston Memorial Day Parade is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1927. According to the parade committee's official About page, American Legion Post #103 first marched to remember fallen comrades ten years after World War I ended.
Rain or shine since 1927
The committee states that the parade has been held every Memorial Day since 1927, regardless of weather. Volunteers describe it as a hometown tradition organized by local business owners, parents, retirees, and young community members.
Route and scale
Press coverage over many decades describes a consistent route. A QNS report from May 22, 2009 noted that the 82nd annual parade would kick off at 2 p.m. at Jason Avenue and Northern Boulevard in Great Neck and proceed west along Northern Boulevard toward St. Anastasia Church in Douglaston. The same report quoted chairman James Rodgers estimating that about 45,000 residents would line the route, calling the event the largest annual Memorial Day parade in the nation.
Today's official site lists the route from Jayson Avenue in Great Neck to 245th Street in Douglaston, with a 2:00 p.m. step-off. See our Spectator Guide for current visitor information.
Community and education
Beyond the parade itself, the association supports veterans, active military, and their families. When held, the committee has also sponsored student essay and art contests tied to the parade theme. The site notes there will not be an Art and Essay contest in 2026.
A milestone ahead
At the 2023 parade, State Senator John Liu told the Queens Gazette that the event started in 1927 and would soon approach its 100th anniversary. The community continues to prepare for that centennial milestone while maintaining the original purpose: remembering Americans who died in defense of the country.