The Village of River Forest, River Forest Park District, Kiwanis Club of River Forest Oak Park, and Oak Park River Forest Chamber of Commerce are proud to present the 101st Annual River Forest Memorial Day Parade, Ceremony, Community Picnic, and Business Bash on Monday, May 25, 2026.
The parade begins at 9:30 AM at Iowa and Ashland, traveling south on Ashland to Lake Street, then west to Keystone Park, where it will conclude with a ceremony and free hot dog lunch. More than 100 entries participate each year, with thousands of residents lining the route, making this one of the most meaningful traditions in the Village of River Forest.
The mission of the parade is to recognize and honor the men and women of the Armed Forces of the United States of America, especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
The honor roll is now available.
Starting this Sunday night (May 24) into Memorial Day (Monday), no overnight parking passes will be valid in the following zones: 1) Central Avenue from Ashland to Keystone avenues, 2) Ashland Avenue from Division to Lake streets, 3) Lake Street from Ashland to Thatcher avenues, 4) the west side of Forest Avenue from Oak Avenue to Lake Street, and 5) the west side of Keystone Avenue from Oak Avenue to Lake Street.
The Police Department will also hang “No Parking” signs in those designated areas until the parade has concluded.The following street closures will be in effect starting at 8:45 a.m. on Memorial Day for the 101st annual Memorial Day Parade: 1) Lake Street between Thatcher and Lathrop avenues, 2) Ashland Avenue between Lake and Thomas streets, 3) and Thomas Street between Franklin and Ashland avenues.
Additionally, there will also be closures on 1) Franklin Avenue between Chicago Avenue and Thomas Street, 2) Keystone Avenue between Central Avenue and Lake Street, 3) Central Avenue between Franklin and Keystone avenues, 4) the east side of Keystone Avenue between Oak Avenue and Lake Street, 5) the east side of Forest Avenue between Oak Avenue and 6) Lake Street, and Augusta Street from Park to Lathrop avenues.Please plan accordingly for the 101st annual Memorial Day Commemoration!