Riverside Veterans Parade

Downtown Riverside honors veterans from every era with the annual Riverside Veterans Parade and Expo, an old-fashioned hometown tradition that has marched through the city since 2006. This year's theme, The Music of Active Duty, brings an extra dose of patriotic sound to the route. The free, family-friendly celebration gives kids a meaningful way to say thank you to the people who have served.

Families can stake out a spot along the route to watch marching bands, color guards, equestrian units, classic vehicles, community groups and veterans themselves roll by, with flyovers adding a thrilling moment overhead. Early risers can start the day with a pancake breakfast at the lower Riverside City College parking lot, where a small charge supports local Scouts and families can see floats and participants up close. Market Street, 10th Street and Main Street have traditionally offered strong viewing areas.

After the parade, the celebration continues Downtown with the Parade Expo, featuring veteran resources, community organizations, food, music and activities for the whole family. It is a great chance for kids to meet service members and learn more about the military community in the Inland Empire. Bring sunscreen, water and a small flag to wave, and plan to arrive early for the best view.

📅 Dates & Times

Saturday, November 14, 2026

Parade steps off at 10:00 a.m.

Parade Expo follows Downtown until approximately 2:00 p.m.

📍 Venue

The parade traditionally forms at Riverside City College (Magnolia Ave. and Ramona Dr.), travels along Magnolia Ave. and Market St., turns right on 10th St. and right on Main St., and ends near the Historic Riverside County Courthouse, where the Expo takes place nearby. Confirm the final route with organizers before event day.

Downtown Riverside (Historic County Courthouse)

4050 Main St

Riverside, CA 92501

👨🏻‍👩🏻‍👦🏻‍👦🏻 Age Requirement

All ages are welcome.

🎟️ Tickets/Price

Free event. No tickets are required.

The optional pancake breakfast at Riverside City College has a small charge that supports local Scouts.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE RIVERSIDE VETERANS PARADE

🍔 Food

A pancake breakfast is offered before the parade at the lower Riverside City College parking lot for a small charge that supports local Scouts. The Parade Expo also features food.

🚙 Parking

Past events offered free parking in Downtown Riverside parking structures, plus metered street spaces. Follow posted signs on event day.

🌐 Website Link

Riverside Veterans Parade and Expo

🧭 Directions

Click on the “Google” map for directions.

📢 Disclaimer

Event listings are believed to be accurate at the time of posting, but details are subject to change without notice. Please confirm all details with the event organizer before attending. FUN WITH KIDS IN LA® is not liable for errors, omissions, or changes to listings in our calendar. Some events have paid us to be on our events calendar, and some events contain an affiliate link.