Families gathered along curbs on Atlantic Avenue in North Long Beach Saturday morning to honor the country’s military veterans at the 23rd annual Veterans Day Parade.

Spectators watched from the sidewalks and median strips as floats and performers made their way along the parade route.

The parade was followed by musicians, DJs, and jazz singers taking the spotlight along Atlantic Avenue to initiate Vets Fest and a street fair, which included resources for veterans and families to connect them with the services and support.

The parade happened despite earlier confusion about its possible cancellation after the Long Beach Veterans Day Committee announced it was no longer able to sponsor the event.

Cars on display at the 23rd annual Long Beach Veterans Day Parade on November 9, 2019. Photo by Sarahi Apaez.
The veteran in yellow has participated in all Long Beach Veterans Parades, “It wouldn’t be the same without him,” announcers say as he drives by. November 9, 2019. Photo by Sarahi Apaez.
Veterans from all over the country participate in the Veterans of Foreign Wars float at the Long Beach Veterans Day Parade on November 9, 2019. Photo by Sarahi Apaez.
Crowds at the 23rd annual Long Beach Veterans Day Parade on November 9, 2019. Photo by Sarahi Apaez.
“Rock for Vets” plays covers of familiars rock and roll artists as the parade grounds turn into Vets Fest in Long Beach on November 9, 2019. Photo by Sarahi Apaez.
Crowds sit along the sidewalk on Atlantic Avenue as floats and performers make their way down the Veterans Day Parade Long Beach route November 9, 2019. Photo by Sarahi Apaez.
Jazz singers light up the corner of 60th Street during the Long Beach Veterans Day Parade on November 9, 2019. Photo by Sarahi Apaez.
Marbella Cardenas dances along to “Rock for Vets” at the 23rd annual Long Beach Veterans Day Parade on November 9, 2019. Photo by Sarahi Apaez.