What a day in downtown Ridgefield! The Memorial Day Parade once again brought the town alive with patriotism, pride, and community spirit.
Before a single float rolled down Main Street, parade emcee Sean “Big Daddy” McKee asked the crowd to rise. With no music behind him and no pageantry ahead, he sang the Star-Spangled Banner. In a powerful moment of unity, thousands placed their hands over their hearts as the flag waved above—a quiet show of American pride that set the tone for the day.
Under clear skies and bright sunshine, Ridgefield’s Memorial Day Parade once again brought the town together in gratitude and celebration. The weather—low 70s and bright—was perfect for what has long been one of Ridgefield’s most cherished traditions.
Organized by American Legion Post #78, the patriotic morning began with a ceremony in front of the Soldier’s Monument at Jesse Lee Memorial United Methodist Church. The parade stepped off at 11:30 a.m., led by the American Legion and this year’s Grand Marshal, Capt. Frank Casey, a decorated Vietnam veteran who served two tours. Flanked by veterans and dignitaries, including Ridgefield’s First Selectman Rudy Marconi and members of the Board of Selectpersons, as well as Governor Ned Lamont and State Senator Ceci Maher—standing together in shared respect for those who gave their lives in service.
As the parade wound its way down Main Street to Ballard Park, a military flyover overhead drew applause and cheers. On the ground, the sights and sounds of Ridgefield’s civic life were everywhere: six marching bands, more than 1,500 participants, and floats and vehicles decked out in stars and stripes. There were antique cars, festively decorated trucks, and a few show-stealing Lamborghinis.
Not all the marchers walked on two legs—Rising Starr Horse Rescue brought majestic horses to the route, and rescue pups from ROAR trotted along, much to the delight of the crowd.
The closing ceremony in Ballard Park featured short remarks from First Selectman Rudy Marconi, American Legion Post 78 Commander George Besse and a moving poem read by Ridgefield’s own Poet Laureate, Ira Joe Fisher.
As the parade wound down, the town’s heartbeat lingered on. The Lantern’s outdoor seating filled with friends and families, while a steady line formed at the beloved hot dog stand! What a wonderful way to celebrate our town and country!
Ridgefield’s Memorial Day Parade is more than tradition. It’s a promise made visible—of remembrance, respect, and the enduring spirit of a town that shows up, together.