By Jennell Peck, Nevada Day Board President — Today, as we gather to watch the magic of the Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York — featuring 26 incredible floats, 17 massive character balloons, 11 marching bands, 30 Rockettes, 600 clowns, and over 1,200 dancers and performers traveling 2.5 miles through Manhattan — we can’t help but feel a deep sense of pride in our very own Nevada Day Parade.
While the New York parade may be the grandest in the nation, our Nevada Day Parade is no less spectacular, showcasing our local pride in full force.
This year, we had 3 thrilling flyovers, 210 entries (including 23 floats), appearances from all 3 Nevada professional sports teams — the Las Vegas Raiders, Reno Aces, and Tahoe Knight Monsters — and our elected officials who represent the State of Nevada, including the mayor of Carson City, Nevada’s governor, senator, congressmen, attorney general, assembly members, and other state officials. We also had tribal members from the Washoe, Paiute, and Shoshone tribes, as well as Miss Nevada and Miss Nevada Rodeo, along with their courts.
Additionally, we were thrilled by 12 bands, cheerleaders, 18 horse groups, 11 military units honoring our veterans, ROTC units, 23 first responders groups, walking groups, flamethrowers, Burning Man participants, and of course, the iconic Cecil the Sea Serpent. It’s a celebration that radiates community spirit from start to finish.
As we reflect on the joy that parades bring — whether in the streets of New York or right here in Carson City, Nevada’s capital — we are reminded of the pride, love, and connection these moments foster. No matter where we are, we are united in celebration, and for that, we are incredibly thankful.
Wishing you all a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with family, joy, and gratitude.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Nevada Day, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) run by a team of dedicated volunteers who enhance our community by coordinating, funding and executing events promoting our state’s history, culture, arts and humanities culminating with a parade remembering Nevada’s admission to the Union on October 31, 1864.
