Lake George Memorial Day Parade

The Lake George Memorial Day Parade opens the summer season with a classic community procession along one of New York’s best known shorelines. You watch local marching bands, military units, and civic groups move through the center of Lake George Village, with the Adirondack Mountains as the backdrop. It is an easy morning plan for families and couples, and it sets a patriotic tone before you spend the afternoon on the water.

The route typically runs along Canada Street, so you can settle in on the sidewalks and keep the logistics simple. Expect a mix of participants, including the local American Legion post, high school bands, and antique fire trucks. The energy stays upbeat, but the pace is steady, so it is easy to shift from parade watching to browsing nearby shops and stopping for lunch.

Plan to arrive by 11:00 AM for the best curb space ahead of the usual 11:30 AM start. Parking can be tight on holiday weekend mornings, so you may want to use public lots slightly uphill from the main stretch and walk down. Bring layers and sunscreen since shade can feel cool while the lakefront sun is strong, and if Canada Street feels too crowded, we like Battlefield Park for a quieter walk with historical markers. Check the forecast, as rain can shorten outdoor ceremonies.

Good to know, the parade is free and ticketless, and it is kid friendly with stroller room along wider sidewalks. If you want a prime viewing spot near the water, aim for the area near Shepard Park. Leashed dogs are generally fine on public sidewalks, though the crowds and band music can be a lot, and the full run time is usually 60 to 90 minutes. For an easy morning, stay in Lake George Village so you can walk to the route, or look to Diamond Point or Bolton Landing for a calmer base, with Lake.com as a useful tool for comparing lodging.