Loveland's annual homecoming parade will shut down streets through downtown Sept. 17, starting at 6:30 p.m.
The Loveland Athletic Boosters organize the parade each year to celebrate students, athletes, alumni and the broader community. This year's route begins at the Loveland-Symmes Fire Department Health and Wellness Center, 227 E. Loveland Ave., winds through downtown Loveland, turns onto Rich Road and ends at Loveland High School, according to the Loveland Daily News.
Residents should expect road closures and heavier traffic as the 6:30 p.m. start approaches. In past years, Loveland police have begun closing roads about 15 minutes before the parade steps off. No 2026 traffic advisory from the city or police department has been published as of Sept. 9.
Erik Shrewsberry, of the Loveland Athletic Booster Homecoming Parade Committee, announced Sept. 9 that Elizabeth Madison will serve as grand marshal. Madison, a 2026 Loveland High School graduate and three-time state wrestling champion, compiled a 143-2 career record with 130 pins.
"Elizabeth is an amazing young lady," Loveland Athletic Director Jayson Bruce said in the Sept. 9 announcement. "To be able to do what she has done through her wrestling career while battling through adversity shows the type of person she is. …"
Spectators can expect candy tossed along the route. Adults and children are encouraged to line the streets.
Loveland Middle School students and youth program participants will exit the parade route at Phillips Park. Those groups stage at the Children's Meeting House Montessori School, 927 O'Bannonville Road, and The Grail, 931 O'Bannonville Road. Buses will transport them from Phillips Park to those staging areas.
High school participants will bus from Loveland High School to the staging area at the fire department wellness center. Only parade vehicles may park at staging lots, and only parade vehicles may enter those lots after 4 p.m. Sept. 17.
The parade ends at Loveland High School.
What to know
- When: Sept. 17, 6:30 p.m.
- Route: Loveland-Symmes Fire Department Health and Wellness Center → Downtown Loveland → Rich Road → Loveland High School
- Road closures: In past years, closures have begun about 15 minutes before the parade.
- Staging lots: Restricted to parade vehicles after 4 p.m.
