After the recent cancellation of the Colorado Springs Veterans Day Parade, a new event, the In Their Honor Veterans Day Parade, will march forward in its place, ensuring the tradition of honoring our military continues in downtown Colorado Springs. Under the management of Colorado International Events, this parade will take place on a new date, Saturday, November 9, 2024 at 11:00 a.m., and will run along Tejon Street from St. Vrain Street to Vermijo Avenue.
In response to the significant public outcry over the cancellation, Colorado International Events—a company experienced in organizing large-scale local events—has stepped in to fill the gap. The In Their Honor Veterans Day Parade will celebrate and recognize the sacrifices of veterans and active-duty members of the military stationed at Colorado Springs’ five local installations. This event promises to provide the community with an opportunity to pay tribute to those who have served and continue to serve our nation.
“As a proud military community with an estimated 90,000 veterans that live in Colorado Springs, we believe it is important that Colorado Springs has a Veterans Day parade to honor the brave women and men who have served our country," said Mayor Yemi Mobolade. "We are grateful that John O'Donnell has stepped forward to organize this year's Veterans Day parade. His willingness to lead this effort on a short deadline speaks volumes about his commitment to our community and our veterans. I encourage all our residents to join us in full force for this year's Veterans Day parade. This is an opportunity for us to come together as a community and express our heartfelt appreciation to our veterans, their spouses and their families. Let's make this year's parade the biggest and best yet!"
“I am so happy to hear that we have been able to save the Veterans Day Parade,” said Colorado Springs City Council President Randy Helms. “Colorado Springs is home to many veterans of our Armed Forces and this 25-year tradition is an important event to honor and recognize those men and women that have served. We are a military town and I am so pleased we are coming together as a community to show support for neighbors, friends, and family that sacrificed for our great country.”
In support of this effort, the Colorado Springs Chamber & Economic Development Corporation, along with the Military Affairs Council, have joined as sponsors of this year's In Their Honor Veterans Day Parade. “The Colorado Springs Chamber & Economic Development Corporation in partnership with our Military Affairs Council are proud to sponsor this year’s Veterans Day Parade and assist with VIP duties. Beyond the $7 billion annual economic impact from the defense industry, it’s the people – our enlisted service members, veterans, and their families – that shape the fabric of our community,” said Johnna Reeder Kleymeyer, president & CEO of the Colorado Springs Chamber & EDC. “The Veterans Day Parade is a tradition that honors the sacrifices and service that strengthen our nation.”
Apply to join the parade
Organizations, veteran groups, and community supporters interested in participating must submit the application to enter the parade. Due to the short notice and event changes, the In Their Honor Air Show Facebook page will have the most current information available, including sponsorship details and other updates.
For questions, sponsorship inquiries or additional information, please contact coloradointernationalevents@gmail.com or call 719-635-8803.
Already planning to participate?
If you or your organization previously applied to be part of the canceled Colorado Springs Veterans Day Parade, please complete the new application to ensure accurate record-keeping.