Youngstown Labor Day Parade a celebrated community event

Looking for an enjoyable Labor Day celebration? The Village of Youngstown’s Labor Day Parade is one to check out.

Take the trip up the Niagara Scenic Parkway to experience old-time charm as this River Region favorite gets underway beginning at noon Monday, Sept. 2, from the Fort Niagara State Park north entrance off Main Street.

“This is a very homespun, grassroots parade, made up of those who love our village and traditions,” said Kristel Stevens, Youngstown village trustee.

Visitors can look forward to a host of participants, including marching units, labor union representation, musical groups, floats, elected officials, police and fire departments, youth sports organizations, community groups and more.

Local favorites include the Niagara County Sheriff’s Office, New York State Police, the MacKenzie Highlanders bag pipes and drums, the Friends of the Youngstown Free Library, Youngstown Lions, U.S. Coast Guard Station Niagara, Old Fort Niagara, Youngstown Boy Scout Pack 829, the Niagara Falls High School Wolverines Marching Band, Mercy Flight float, Local 17 of the International Union of Operating Engineers, Ironworkers Local 9 of Niagara Falls and Youngstown VFW Lake Ontario Post 313.

The parade will proceed south on the village’s Main Street to Elliott Street. Visitors are welcome to check out a number of village eateries and specialty outlets that will be open for business that day.

That afternoon, the First Presbyterian Church of Youngstown will celebrate Labor Day, as well its 200^th anniversary, with a chowder sale. Stop by the church courtyard at 100 Church St., and enjoy chowder servings by the bowl or quart, along with beverages and cookies. A variety of kids’ games and fun activities for the younger set are also planned.

As the saying goes, “Save Labor Day for Youngstown!”

This promises to be a good one.

Youngstown Labor Day parade file photos.