The Canoga Park Memorial Day Parade returns for its 34th year on Monday, May 25, 2026, bringing the San Fernando Valley community together for its longstanding Memorial Day tradition. This year’s theme, “Saluting the Price of Freedom,” honors all who gave their lives in service to our nation. Mayor Karen Bass will be in attendance during this year’s parade, highlighting the event’s significance beyond the San Fernando Valley.

Hosted by the Canoga Park Community Center, the parade pays tribute to fallen heroes from every branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, with a special tribute to local heroes, including Canoga Park High School graduates, who gave their lives from World War II to present day. Drawing about 5,000 attendees each year, it remains the only Memorial Day in the City and County of Los Angeles.

This parade will be emceed by local business leader, Miri Rossitto, founder and CEO of Cowe Communications.

The day begins at 10:00 a.m. Opening Ceremony, followed by the parade kickoff at 11:00am, and an 11:15 am Flyover of the Condor Squadron sponsored by the Van Nuys Airport. The parade participants will make their way along Sherman Way, from Owensmouth Avenue to Cozycroft Avenue, transforming the route into a moving tribute filled with patriotism and community pride. Each year, the parade brings together a dynamic lineup of participants, from veterans organizations and five marching High School bands to local businesses and community organizations.
Bill Ratner, Chair of the Canoga Park Memorial Day Parade, shares his thoughts on this community tradition: “This 34th Annual event is a grassroots hometown parade that reflects our community’s solemn promise of remembrance to our fallen."

This year’s parade will be led by Grand Marshal Rear Admiral Dave Barnes, U.S. Navy, a proud native of the West San Fernando Valley who considers communities like Canoga Park, Chatsworth, Granada Hills, and Northridge his lifelong home. Commissioned through the University of San Diego’s NROTC program, RDML Barnes has built an accomplished military career spanning both active duty and 24 years in the Navy Reserve. A Naval Flight Officer with more than 1,500 flight hours, he has held multiple high-level command roles across global operations, including assignments in the Indo-Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East. His distinguished service has been recognized with numerous honors, including three Legion of Merit awards. In addition to his military career, RDML Barnes serves as a pilot for United Airlines, bringing his dedication to service and leadership back to Southern California.

Now in its 34th year, the Canoga Park Memorial Day Parade remains a beloved community tradition, bringing together generations to remember and honor those who gave everything in service to the nation.