New Rochelle Memorial Day Activities Kick Off at 10:30 a.m.

Today is the day to remember those who have served in the armed forces of the United States—many of whom gave their lives in the effort.

Before you fire up the barbecue grill and crack open those brewskies, you can take part in New Rochelle's holiday celebration.

Beginning at 10:30 a.m. Monday, there will be a brief ceremony at Memorial Plaza—Memorial Highway and Main Street—followed by the fifth annual Memorial Day Parade and procession to Hudson Park. That is where a waterfront ceremony honoring those lost at sea will be held.

The parade will go on Huguenot Street to North Avenue and then down to Pelham Road to the park, so residents and motorists should count on street closings.

The parade will feature New Rochelle's police and fire departments, active duty servicemen and women, the New Rochelle High School and Trinity Elementary School bands and other schools and civic groups.

The public is encouraged to cheer on the parade streets and then fall in behind the parade and walk to the park.

After the waterfront ceremony, the "Picnic in the Park" will feature a $1 menu from AJ's Burgers, Pronto Pizza and the United Veterans Memorial & Patriotic Association. There will be live music all afternoon at the Hudson Park Bandshell, featuring the American Bombshells and New Rochelle’s own West Enders and Third Stone bands, with emcee Dennis Nardone and entertainer Joan Crowe. There will also be crafts and games. Weather permitting, there will be a helicopter landing at 2 p.m. for public viewing until 4 p.m.

In case of rain, the ceremony and concert will be held in the Monroe College Athletic Facility at New Roc City.

As of Sunday evening, the National Weather Service is forecasting isolated showers and thunderstorms before 10 a.m. Monday, then isolated showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. Otherwise, it will be partly sunny, with a high near 88. West winds will be between 5 and 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20 percent.

For more information on the parade and ceremony, visit www.newrochelleny.com.