In 2011 the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York assumed management of the Parade and officially changed the event’s name to the Celebrate Israel Parade to focus on celebrating the vibrant and diverse State of Israel.

In 2024, the Parade was temporarily renamed Israel Day on Fifth.  Its theme was “One People, One Heart,” and it focused on the New York Jewish community’s connection to the State of Israel and on the Israeli hostages in Gaza. Click HERE for a recap with photos and HERE for the extensive media coverage.

The Parade traditionally features over 40,000 marchers from many organizations. Hundreds of thousands enthusiastic spectators watch American and Israeli community leaders and dignitaries, entertainers, artists, musicians, dancers, celebrities, floats and marching bands.  Many more watch on the live broadcast via television or live-stream.

The Parade has also welcomed the participation of the Prime Minister of Israel, a delegation of Members of Knesset, and other Israeli dignitaries.  New York’s Governor, the Mayor of New York City, U.S. Senators, Congressional Representatives, Members of the State Senate, Assembly and City Council also participate each year, proudly supporting the bond between the United States and Israel.

For the Parade’s many Marching Groups, Cluster Groups and Floats, the Parade is a culmination of a year-long Israel educational effort using a creative theme. Each Group or Float works with the Parade staff to develop a creative presentation with colorful banners, costumes and props in a show of unity and pageantry.