With the Homecoming of Heroes Ticker-Tape Parade, New York City officially honors veterans of the Global War on Terror, first responders, and their families for the first time.
What to expect
The parade is a historic tribute to a generation that has shown extraordinary service, sacrifice, and resilience over many years.
For the first time, veterans of the post-9/11 generation are welcomed with a parade through the legendary Canyon of Heroes, a symbol of national recognition and gratitude. Alongside veterans, members of the FDNY, NYPD, and Port Authority Police Department also take part, whose service is deeply connected to the events and aftermath of September 11, 2001.
The parade takes place in a particularly meaningful historical context and highlights the role of this generation in the recent history of the United States. Homecoming of Heroes is not just a parade, but a moment of collective remembrance, recognition, and respect.
Where does the ticker-tape parade take place?
The ticker-tape parade runs through the so-called Canyon of Heroes in Lower Manhattan. The procession usually starts at Battery Park and then moves north along Broadway.
Ticker-tape parades are held for special historic or sporting events, for example:
- the dedication of the Statue of Liberty in 1886
- astronauts after successful space missions
- major sports victories, such as the World Series, Super Bowl, or NBA Championships
- important state guests and public figures
To this day, these parades are considered one of the highest honors New York City can give.
The ticker-tape parade gets its name from the paper strips that used to rain down on honorees from the surrounding office buildings. Today, confetti is used instead.
