Israel Day Parade 2025: Everything you need to know 

Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue is gearing up for the Israel Day on Fifth Parade, the world’s largest gathering in support of Israel, set to kick off at 11:30 a.m. EDT today.

Organized by the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York (JCRC-NY), the parade will march from East 62nd to East 74th Streets under the theme “Hatikvah – The Hope,” symbolizing resilience amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and rising global antisemitism.

With extensive street closures and robust security measures, the event promises a powerful display of solidarity.

What to Expect

The parade, expected to wrap up by 4:00 p.m. EDT, will feature over 40,000 marchers, including Jewish day schools, synagogues, youth groups, first responders, and community organizations.

American and Israeli dignitaries, musicians, dancers, and vibrant floats will join, with a special focus on former Gaza hostages and families of those still held captive, highlighting the aftermath of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack. Groups like the Hebrew Academy of Long Beach, Westchester Jewish Center, and Brotherhood Synagogue are mobilizing, many sporting themed T-shirts such as “Westchester Loves Israel.”

The event will be broadcast live on Fox 5 NY from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. EDT and available via livestream, allowing global audiences to tune in. “This isn’t just a parade: it’s a statement of hope and unity,” said a JCRC-NY spokesperson. Free buses from communities like Kings Bay Y and Westchester are bringing marchers, who registered weeks in advance for security and coordination.

Renamed from the Celebrate Israel Parade in 2024, this year’s event carries a somber yet hopeful tone, reflecting the war in Gaza and antisemitic challenges worldwide. The theme, drawn from Israel’s national anthem, underscores the community’s resolve.

Heightened Security Measures

The New York Police Department (NYPD) is deploying a “comprehensive security plan” comparable to major events like New Year’s Eve, responding to heightened tensions tied to the Gaza conflict. NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, speaking at a Friday briefing, noted a “notable increase in demonstrations and antisemitic threats” since October 7, 2023. While no “specific or credible threats” target the parade, the NYPD is taking every precaution.

Security includes:

Enhanced policing: Drones, ARGUS cameras, canine units, counter-terrorism specialists, and horse-mounted officers will patrol the route.

Fortified barriers: Sanitation trucks, NYPD vehicles, and fencing will line Fifth Avenue, with checkpoints at entry points.

Strict screening: Metal detectors will screen all attendees. Prohibited items include backpacks, large bags, umbrellas, folding chairs, coolers, alcohol, and banners that obstruct views.

Limited access: Spectators cannot enter from Central Park, and viewing areas along Madison Avenue at East 61st, 63rd, 66th, 70th, and 73rd Streets are first-come, first-served, with redirects once full.

“Everyone can express their views peacefully, but criminal activity won’t be tolerated,” Tisch said. Mayor Eric Adams vowed a swift police response to any disruptions, emphasizing safety for all attendees.

Street Closures and Transit Impacts

The parade prompts significant street closures, starting early Sunday:

Formation Areas (closed from early morning):

Fifth Avenue between 52nd and 55th Streets

52nd to 55th Streets between Madison, Park, Sixth, and Seventh Avenues

Route Closures:

Fifth Avenue between 55th and 74th Streets

60th and 62nd Streets between Fifth and Madison Avenues

Dispersal Areas:

Fifth Avenue between 74th and 79th Streets

72nd to 78th Streets between Fifth, Madison, Lexington, and Park Avenues

64th and 69th Streets between Fifth, Madison, and Park Avenues

Festival Area:

63rd Street between Fifth and Madison Avenues

Madison Avenue Closures:

East 42nd to East 57th Streets from 7:30 a.m. EDT

East 57th Street northward from 11:00 a.m. EDT

Pedestrians can cross Fifth Avenue only at East 51st, 59th, and 79th Streets during the parade. MTA buses along the route are being rerouted to Second Avenue, causing potential delays.

Community and Political Support

New York’s Governor, Mayor, U.S. Senators, and Congressional Representatives are expected to join, reinforcing the U.S.-Israel bond. Community groups from New Jersey to Long Island are rallying, with some meeting at designated spots like East 52nd Street between 5th and 6th Avenues. Social media buzz on X highlights the parade’s significance, with posts noting the “heavier police presence than any other parade” as a sign of its weight.

How to Join or Watch

Spectators should arrive early to secure viewing spots and expect security checks. For those unable to attend, the livestream is accessible via israeldayon5th.com. Marchers must wear group-specific T-shirts and follow NYPD guidelines.

As the parade prepares to step off, Manhattan braces for a day of celebration, reflection, and unity. “Hatikvah is more than a theme—it’s our strength,” said a Westchester marcher. For more details, visit israeldayon5th.com or contact JCRC-NY.

NY1 News contributed to this article.