KENOSHA, Wis. – The lineup is set for this year’s Kenosha Civic Veterans Parade, which will step off Sunday, June 29, 2025, in downtown Kenosha. Presented by Snap-on, the annual tradition honors the region’s veterans while showcasing dozens of community organizations, marching bands, local leaders, and first responders.
The parade will feature five themed divisions and a robust pre-parade segment, with entries ranging from color guards and car clubs to stilt walkers and tumbling teams. This year’s event again highlights a strong presence from military groups, youth performers, and local businesses.
Pre-Parade Salute to Service and Safety
Before the main parade officially kicks off, spectators will enjoy a motorcade of veteran motorcycle riders, law enforcement vehicles, and fire departments from across the region. Notable entries include:
- VFW Riders Post 1865 and American Legion Riders
- Kenosha Police Department led by Chief Patrick Patton
- Sheriff David Zoerner and the Kenosha County Honor Guard
- Kenosha Fire Department, Somers Fire and Rescue, and Multi-jurisdictional Motor Corps
- Classic and custom vehicles courtesy of the Kenosha Car Club, McDevitt’s Towing, and others
- Midwest Armor Museum display of military vehicles
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Division 1: Local Leaders, Marching Bands, and Community Spirit
Sponsored by Jockey International, the first division showcases local government officials, youth organizations, and the Lutheran Vanguard of Wisconsin marching band. Highlights include:
- Mayor David Bogdala and County Executive Samantha Kerkman
- U.S. Representative Bryan Steil
- 2024 Hometown Hero Gary Beltoya and 2025 Veteran of the Year Milt Dean
- Floats from Snap-on, Kenosha Public Library, and Kenosha Emerging Leaders Academy
- Performances by Step by Step Dance Academy and Blue Saints Drum Corps
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Division 2: Elected Officials, Entertainment, and Family Fun
The second division, presented by First American Bank, continues the patriotic theme with appearances from State Sen. Bob Wirch, Reps. Tip McGuire and Ben DeSmidt, and local youth sports and pageant royalty. Among the most anticipated entries:
- Miss Kenosha Nellyka Davis
- Parade favorites Those Funny Little People and the Jesse White Tumblers
- Floats from Jerry Smith Farm, Archbishop Messmer Assembly Knights of Columbus, and Kenosha Rambler Football and Cheer
.
Division 3: Civic Services and Community Performance
Sponsored by Lift Pro LLC, the third division mixes service organizations with student groups and musical talent:
- The Kenosha Pops and River City Rhythm marching bands
- Community partners like UW-Parkside, Alliance Women’s Clinic, and Salvation Army
- Elected officials including Clerk Rebecca Matoska-Mentink, Treasurer Teri Jacobson, and Register of Deeds Jennifer Mack
- Youth-driven floats like Kenosha Komets Hockey and Southport Kidz Adventure Camp
- Closing entries include K-Town Burlesque, YMX Logistics, and the Lake County Shriners
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Division 4: Education, Labor, and Pageantry
The fourth division, backed by Rohrman Automotive Group, includes schools, small businesses, and musical acts:
- Carthage College and Bradford High School Football
- Bands including Band of the Blackwatch and Mad Plaid Brass
- Floats from the Kenosha County Democratic Party, Jazzercise, and BBQ’d Productions
- Public figures like Miss Bristol Margaret Gillmore and representatives from SouthEastern WI Building Trades Council
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Division 5: Commerce, Culture, and County Pride
Rounding out the parade is Division 5, sponsored by Festival Foods, with a focus on area businesses, fair participants, and crowd-pleasing acts:
- The Festival Foods Mini Semi and Lighthouse Brigade of Racine
- Kenosha County Fairest of the Fair Kaelie Billingsley and Royalty Jadyn Eisenbraun
- Floats from the Republican Party of Kenosha County, Kenosha Beach House, and The Gratzi
- Live entertainment from Raphael Entertainment’s juggler, Route 66 Belle City, and the K-Town Stompers
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The 2025 parade is expected to draw thousands of spectators along the downtown parade route, continuing a cherished tradition of civic pride and public appreciation for those who serve the country and community.
Organizers urge attendees to arrive early, bring water, and prepare for a day filled with patriotic spirit, local talent, and family fun.
