The year was 2016. Halloween Horror Nights 26 featuring Chance as the main attraction just wrapped barely a week ago. Jimmy Fallon and the Race Through New York still had construction walls up around it. Some holiday decorations already started appearing around the park. However there was one holiday that needed to be observed before the Christmas Tree could go up the next day. And that holiday was Veterans Day.
I just happened to be in the park to take photos of the dismantling of HHN, and saw a production crew across from Macy's. After some eavesdropping and assuming, I grabbed a spot for an impending parade. And I was not disappointed!
It was a grand procession of American Veterans, current members of the military, Universal stilt performers, and some rare face and animated characters sprinkled throughout. It all culminated with a flag raising ceremony and a rain storm of red, white, and blue confetti.
I tried to make it back to the park on this day each year after. I made it the next year, but couldn't get to the parks for Veterans Day 2018 or 2019. Even though they've recently brought back their night show around the lagoon, the parks are still shying away from parades. Coupled with the Universal Christmas tree going up a couple days ago, I don't think we will be seeing a parade this year. I am unable to make it out today, but I am hoping they at least have a flag raising ceremony or something to honor our Universal Team Member and local Veterans.
Be sure to follow me on Instagram! I am going to make a post later with a few character photos from that day. Here is the parade from 2016. If you're able, thank a Veteran for their service today!