The Findlay Market Parade may not have the opulence and national recognition of Pasadena’s Rose Parade or Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade in New York City, but it meets their tradition on a local scale.
Findlay Market (in its own right) is a Cincinnati institution. In earlier times, the city had many markets, but Findlay Market is the sole survivor and now listed as a National Historic Landmark. Located in the historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, Ohio’s oldest continuously operated market has its named attached to a parade associated with Opening Day. (You may recall from this post last week that I went into the city for the ambiance of the day.)
2014 was the Cincinnati Reds’ 133rd Opening Day and the 95th Findlay Market Parade. The parade route is several miles along with rows of people lining the entire journey … and many more people watching in city center.
The Reason for the Annual Celebration
Although records show this year’s parade had over 180 floats, a float is definite as any wheeled vehicle that carries people. A truck pulling a long trailer loaded with people dressed in red (with some holding a plastic glass) is a float. In other words, it’s a cheesy parade featuring local celebrities, organizations, businesses, trucks, horses, marching bands, a lawn mower drill team, and more. This parade is not opulent, but it is a beloved Cincinnati tradition and the reason why people will stand and watch for 2 hours. Enjoy the parade.
People love to participate in this parade
Do you remember this post about Teddy?
He was the Honorary Grand Marshall (as a Reds great from the past was the Grand Marshall)
I strolled to Fountain Square where crowds were the biggest.
Do you see Cincinnati’s leading lady with her outstretched arms in the background?
Looking back at Fountain Square from the Skywalk
For those who want a closer look at the lady on Fountain Square
Others in the parade
It’s a float!
Cheers to Cincinnati’s beer tradition and their salute to Guapo
