Appleton Takes Applications for Largest Flag Day Parade in USA

APPLETON, WI- (WISS) – The largest Flag Day Parade in the country will take place in Appleton on Saturday, June 14th. The City of Appleton Parades Committee is now accepting applications for the 74th Appleton Flag Day Parade. It is also accepting applications for the Memorial Day Parade on May 26th.

The Flag Day Parade

“The Appleton Flag Day Parade is more than a tradition—it’s a powerful reminder of what brings us together as Americans,” said Corey Otis, Chairperson for the City of Appleton Parades Committee. “When we celebrate the red, white, and blue, we not only salute the strengths of our nation but also the unity of our community.”

Every year, the parade honors a branch of the military, but this year, Appleton will spotlight both the United States Marine Corps and Navy, which each celebrate 250 years of service in 2025. 

The 74th Appleton Flag Day Parade theme is “Honor, Courage, Commitment”: these are the core values of the United States Marine Corps and Navy. 

“The Marines and Navy have defended our freedom since the American Revolution,” said Otis. “Their service and sacrifice have been vital to our nation’s strength, security, and unwavering spirit.”

The Parade Grand Marshal, as always, is the United States Flag. Fox Cities residents have honored “Old Glory” on the second Saturday in June since 1950, making the Appleton Flag Day Parade the nation’s oldest. The celebration annually draws more than 50,000 spectators and participants from throughout the state and nation to Appleton.

The 74th Appleton Flag Day Parade will start at 2:00 pm at the intersection of Wisconsin Avenue and N. Oneida Street. The route travels west down W. Wisconsin Avenue to N. State Street, south on N. State Street to W. College Avenue. At W. College Avenue, the parade travels east and ends at Drew Street. 

The Memorial Day Parade

The 2025 Appleton Memorial Day Parade is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on Monday, May 26, 2025. 

The Appleton Memorial Day Parade pays tribute to servicemen and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving in defense of the United States. The “Moment of Remembrance” ceremony will occur immediately following the parade in Appleton’s historic Riverside Cemetery, 714 North Owaissa Street. 

Applying to be in either parade

Organizations interested in participating in the 2025 Appleton Memorial Day Parade or the 74th Appleton Flag Day Parade must complete and submit an official application before April 15, 2025. 

Groups can access the applications online via the City of Appleton website (appletonwi.gov/community/appleton_parades) or the City of Appleton Parades Facebook page.