5,000 programs have been printed for the Newtown Labor Day parade. This year's theme is "We Are Newtown: Marching Strong". Typically the town has 3,000 programs printed, but are expecting an influx of people this year.
The entire town has been named as this year's Grand Marshal.
The 2nd Company Governor's Horse Guard, veterans groups, school bands, scout groups and politicians are joining with area businesses and religious groups in marching this year.
Parade Committee President Beth Caldwell says today they are honoring all those who live and work in the community who strive to make it “nicer in Newtown.”
The judges this year are representatives of the Newtown Ecumenical Council. Awards and trophies are being given for the best music entry, best float and most patriotic entry among other categories. The 2nd Company Governor's Horse Guard is being presented with this year's Legends and Pioneers Award--which is given annually to the group or person who is a longtime participant and has helped make the parade a special tradition.
Caldwell says today they are honoring town leaders, first responders, educators, and residents who are seeking to promote peaceful change.
The parade this year will start at 10am, earlier than recent years. Roads will be closed by 9:30am on Monday and there are several streets where parking will be prohibited.
The following roads will be closed:
- Rte 25/Mt Pleasant Road South at Reservoir Road
- Main Street access from Academy Lane, Currituck rd, Hanover, School House Hill,
and West Street.
- Church Hill Road Westbound at The Boulevard
- Rte. 302 at Elm Drive
- Rte. 25 North at Elizabeth St. (Detour for Rte. 25 N will be Wasserman Way)
- Queen St. North at Elizabeth St.
The following roads will have “No Parking” signs erected on them and will be considered tow away zones:
The Boulevard (from Church Hill Road to School House Hill rd)
School House Hill Road (from the Boulevard to Main Street)
Hanover Road (From Main Street to Hall Lane)
Elm Drive (from Rte. 302 to Hawley rd)
Meadow Rd. & Elizabeth St. (One side only)
The parade will be led by Newtown First Responders, Police and firefighters. The Newtown Labor Day parade started in 1962. Here is a list of those participating.
