News

Vintage war birds and sleek air racers flyover to "America's Quintessential Hometown," on Nov. 11 to take part in what has been called the "largest Veterans Day Parade north of the Golden Gate."

The planes will fly in formation over Historic Downtown Petaluma, California between 1 and 2 p.m. as the Annual Northbay Veterans Day Parade, which begins at 1 p.m., winds its way north from the starting point at Walnut Park at "D" Street, along 4th and Kentucky streets, around the corner at Washington Street and south along Petaluma Boulevard to finish up back at Walnut Park.

During the parade, military color guards and vehicles, drill teams, and specialty units march along on the ground with along with the traditional floats, horses, antique cars, fire engines, bands and scout troops. Historically a short memorial ceremony at Walnut Park follows the parade.

 

According to Steve Kemmerle, our prior parade coordinator from American Legion Post 28, participation in this year's parade could top the more than 200 entries and 2,000 individuals that took part last year. In the early 90's the number of parade entries reached 100. Kemmerle dates the official start of the parade from 1986 when 50 veterans joined 92-year old Julius Forcucci, who carried the American flag, during an annual trek through Historic Downtown. Other sources say the event has been taking place in Petaluma for more than 80 years.

 

For more information about the air show and fly-in visit www.petalumaveteransparade.com. For information about the parade and Petaluma lodging, dining and other attractions, contact the Petaluma Visitor Center at (707) 769-0429 or toll free at 1-877-2-PETALUMA.