Downers Grove Fire Department Hosts 21st Annual Silent Parade

Submitted by the Downers Grove Fire Department.

The Downers Grove Fire Department, along with the neighboring villages of Hinsdale, Clarendon Hills, Westmont, and Lisle, will host the Twenty First Annual Fire Department Silent Parade on Friday, Oct. 9.

The parade will step off in Hinsdale at 7:00 p.m. and proceed west along Maple Avenue through Clarendon Hills, Westmont, Downers Grove, and Lisle.

Due to construction on Maple Avenue between Cumnor and Fairview, this year’s parade will take a short detour, proceeding north on Cumnor to Sheldon, west on Sheldon to Fairview, south on Fairview back to Maple. The parade will continue along Maple and is expected to pass through Downers Grove at approximately 7:15 p.m.

An illuminated American flag, suspended from crossed aerial ladders will grace the intersection of Main and Maple Avenues in Downers Grove, as the cortege passes underneath.

One of the largest parades of this type in the state, the parade traditionally features fire service vehicles from more than 25 surrounding communities. All vehicles will display lights only; no sirens will be sounded. The parade has always been a dedication to the firefighters and civilians who lost their lives due to fires and other disasters. Visitors observing the parade are encouraged to bring flashlights and American flags to light the way for the fire service.

The parade will conclude with a memorial service for firefighters and civilians at the Trinity Lutheran Church at Route 53 and 60th Street in Lisle.