The Wissahickon Day Parade, a historic procession of horseback riders and horse-drawn carriages, is set to return on Sunday, April 26, after a hiatus since 2019 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Originating in 1921 as a protest to keep cars off Wissahickon Boulevard—now Forbidden Drive—the parade celebrates the preservation of this car-free natural space. Starting at Northwestern Stables and ending at Valley Green Inn, the event features participants wearing ribbons and includes announcers naming riders and horses along the route.

This year’s parade honors Dr. Thomas Fitzpatrick, a 101-year-old World War II veteran and longtime participant. Organized by Nancy Peter and Andrea Shumsky of the Wissahickon Valley Riding and Driving Association, the parade emphasizes a love of horses, nature, and community education. Interested participants can register via the parade’s Facebook page or by contacting Nancy Peter, with the event subject to cancellation in case of heavy rain.