Our History

A vintage black Chevrolet Corvette convertible driving down a city street during a parade. Spectators, including children and adults, line the sidewalk watching the car pass. Traffic lights and street signs are visible above the parade, with a church steeple seen in the background.
People participating in a parade with American flags, including a person dressed as George Washington, and a crowd of spectators watching on the sides.
Military band marching in parade on city street with onlookers and church steeple in background
People sitting on bleachers holding umbrellas on a rainy day, including veterans and civilians, some wearing military uniforms and hats.

A Tradition of Remembrance

For more than three decades, the NC Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony has brought together veterans, service members, Gold Star families, civic organizations, businesses, and community members to honor the men and women who served our nation, especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice. The event has grown into the largest Memorial Day parade and celebration in the Southeastern United States.

What began as a local tradition has evolved into a regional gathering focused on remembrance, gratitude, and service. Each Memorial Day weekend, thousands come together in Thomasville to participate in ceremonies, concerts, tributes, and one of North Carolina's most recognized Memorial Day observances.

Throughout its history, the parade and ceremony have honored veterans from every generation while providing a meaningful opportunity for families and communities to remember those who gave their lives in defense of our freedom. Military bands, veterans organizations, Gold Star families, military vehicles, ceremonial tributes, and community participation have become enduring traditions of the event.

Today, the NC Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony continues its mission of preserving the meaning of Memorial Day while ensuring future generations understand the sacrifices made by America's military heroes.

A young man in military uniform playing a trombone during a band performance, with other band members visible in the background on a stage with black curtains decorated with small lights.
Two U.S. Marines in dress uniforms standing near a large American flag at a memorial event.
A memorial ceremony at a cemetery with U.S. flags in the background. One person in a military uniform is reading at a podium, while another is kneeling next to a grave, placing a small American flag on a white cross.