CNY Veterans Parade and Expo Set for November 7 at State Fairgrounds

SYRACUSE, N.Y. – For 19 years, Central New York has come together to show gratitude towards the men and women who have worn the uniform of the United States Armed Forces. The Annual CNY Veterans Parade and Expo will take place Saturday, November 7, at the New York State Fairgrounds. It has become one of the region’s signature tributes at which the community turns out to show their appreciation and organizations offer services available to veterans.

Assemblyman Bill Magnarelli asked State Senator Chris Ryan to continue the tradition of hosting the CNY Veterans Parade and Expo next year.

Assemblyman Magnarelli reinvigorated the veterans’ parade in 2008 as a way to show support for our military and veterans. He wanted the event to be like the military parades he remembered watching on Salina Street during his youth. After calling local high school marching bands, military units, VFWs and American Legions, the first parade once again filled Salina Street with red, white & blue…and camouflage. In 2011, the parade moved to the NYS Fairgrounds and added the expo, as an opportunity for organizations to connect with military members and veterans. Each year since, this annual event has grown due to the dedication of the participants and sponsors. The CNY Veterans Parade and Expo is a registered 501c3 non-profit organization.

“Our veterans and military families are an essential part of the fabric of our communities. Each year the event provides a wonderful opportunity to meet the veterans in our community and show them our appreciation and gratitude,” said Magnarelli. “The community and businesses are so supportive and provide a great foundation for the veterans and military personnel.”

“The transition marks a new chapter for an event built on a simple but powerful mission: ensuring veterans know that their service, sacrifice and commitment to our country will never be forgotten. We have a responsibility to stand behind those who have stood up for our country—not just with words, but by making sure they have the support, resources and recognition they deserve,” said Senator Christopher Ryan. “The CNY Veterans Parade and Expo reminds us that honoring our veterans is not simply a tradition it is an essential part of carrying for and providing services for our veterans.”

A Day of Heroes, History and Inspiration

This year’s event will feature the extraordinary accomplishments of a Central New York native and the important work of military personnel.

At 10 a.m. in the Center of Progress, NASA astronaut Jeanette Epps will share her experiences aboard the International Space Station. A graduate of Corcoran High School and Le Moyne College, Epps made history as part of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-8 mission, spending nearly eight months in orbit. Her appearance offers students, families and aspiring scientists a rare opportunity to hear from someone who grew up in Central New York and went on to explore space.

Honoring a Lifetime of Service

This year’s Grand Marshal is Mike LaNasa, a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel whose 26 years of military service and decades of continued dedication to the Central New York veterans community embody the spirit of the event.

LaNasa began his military career as a staff sergeant before attending Officer Candidate School. Over the course of his Army career, he served in numerous command and staff positions, including leadership roles in intelligence, logistics and operations. He managed security, logistics and training operations involving more than 500 personnel before retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

His commitment to service did not end with his military retirement. LaNasa has remained deeply involved in veterans organizations throughout Central New York. He represents the thousands of veterans whose dedication to our country continues through their service to their communities.

A Parade That Says Thank You

At noon, the focus will turn to Chevy Court as the annual parade steps off, bringing together approximately 70 participating organizations.

American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars posts, military units, veteran-supporting businesses and high school marching bands will fill the parade route. Participating school bands include Baldwinsville, East Syracuse Minoa, Rome, West Genesee and Syracuse City Schools.

Representatives from the 10th Mountain Division, 174th Attack Wing, 4th LAR and Oswego Coast Guard are among the military organizations that have helped make this event a reflection of the region’s deep military connections. Veterans representing conflicts dating back to World War II and every branch of the armed services have been part of the parade.

For the veterans marching, the experience is about more than a procession. It is an opportunity to see firsthand that their neighbors, families and communities remember what they have done. The applause, waving flags and cheers from spectators serve as a powerful reminder that their sacrifices have not gone unnoticed.

More Than 100 Organizations Supporting Veterans

The Expo will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. inside the Center of Progress Building, featuring more than 100 organizations and exhibitors.

Veterans, active-duty personnel, military families and the general public can connect with veterans service organizations, learn about available programs and resources, meet businesses involved in military contracts and explore opportunities to support those who have served.

A children’s center will provide activities for younger visitors, helping introduce the next generation to the importance of military service and the sacrifices made to protect our country.

TOPS and the Skaneateles American Legion will also host a free breakfast for veterans beginning at 9 a.m., while supplies last.

Because saying thank you is important. Showing up to say it means even more.

19th Annual CNY Veterans Parade and Expo

When: Saturday, November 7, 2026

Where: New York State Fairgrounds, Center of Progress and Chevy Court, Syracuse

• Expo: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• Free Veterans Breakfast: 9 a.m. until sold out
• 9 a.m. Phoenix Community Band
• Astronaut Jeanette Epps: 10 a.m.
• 11:15a.m. Brig Juice
• Veterans Parade: Noon
• 1 p.m. 10th Mountain Division Band

Admission: Free | Parking: Free