KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — A local tradition dating back around a century is returning once again to downtown Knoxville — the annual Veterans Day parade.
Monday's event will mark the 99th parade hosted by Knoxville. It is organized by the American Legion Post 2 and usually features large crowds lining Gay Street while floats and marchers walk down the road. It is meant to honor veterans across the country.
This year's parade will start at 10:40 a.m. Rules for the parade said there could be brief stops along the route for dance routines or band performances.
Organizers said no entry designed to primarily promote private companies would be allowed since entries and decorations would be to "show respect and dignity to our veterans, our active military and the United States Flag."
The rules also said no entry would be allowed promoting "a particular political or social viewpoint except for those honoring the service of our veterans and current members of the U.S. Armed Forces."
The American Legion Post 2 began in July 1919 and has a membership of more than 600 local service members, according to its website. It also organizes events for Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day and Memorial Day, while arranging community support for veterans such as transportation for veterans with disabilities.