New York City’s annual Israel Day Parade is set to take place on Fifth Avenue this Sunday, but for the first time in decades, the city’s mayor will not be among the participants.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani reaffirmed that he would not attend the event, citing his longstanding criticism of the Israeli government. While emphasizing his commitment to public safety and support for all New Yorkers, Mamdani said his position on Israeli policies remains unchanged.
Speaking during a press conference on parade security preparations, the mayor noted that attendance at the event was a personal decision and would not affect the city’s efforts to ensure a safe celebration. Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, who supports Israel and plans to participate in the parade, said security measures would be stronger than ever due to heightened concerns about antisemitism and public safety.
The Israel Day Parade has long been a major fixture on New York’s political calendar, often attracting elected officials seeking to demonstrate solidarity with Israel and the city’s large Jewish community. However, attitudes toward Israel have become increasingly divided in the United States following the October 2023 Hamas attack and the subsequent conflicts in Gaza and across the Middle East.
When Does the Parade Start?
The parade is scheduled to begin at 11:30 a.m. and will proceed along Fifth Avenue, running from 74th Street to 62nd Street on Manhattan’s Upper East Side.
Spectators are encouraged to arrive early, as security screenings and crowd-control measures may cause delays near entry points.
Who’s Attending?
A number of prominent political and community leaders are expected to participate, including:
- Governor Kathy Hochul
- Attorney General Letitia James
- State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli
- New York City Comptroller Mark Levine
- City Council Speaker Julie Menin
- Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch
- Former Mayor Eric Adams, attending as a private citizen
- Israeli officials, including Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana and other lawmakers
Road Closures and Security Measures
Drivers should expect significant traffic disruptions throughout the day.
Key impacts include:
- Fifth Avenue closed between 74th Street and 62nd Street during parade operations.
- Additional street closures near the parade route before and after the event.
- Increased police presence, including uniformed and plainclothes officers.
- Security checkpoints and screening areas for attendees.
- Restricted spectator access along certain sections of Central Park bordering the route.
- Temporary detours for buses and local traffic in the surrounding neighborhoods.
Officials advise residents and visitors to use public transportation whenever possible and allow extra travel time when moving through Midtown and the Upper East Side.
What Is This Year’s Theme?
Organizers have selected “Proud Americans, Proud Zionists” as the theme for the 2026 parade. The event aims to celebrate Jewish identity, community pride, and support for Israel while taking place amid ongoing debates over Middle East politics and rising concerns about antisemitism in the United States.
With heightened security and a strong lineup of public officials, the 2026 Israel Day Parade is expected to draw large crowds and remain a major event on New York City’s civic calendar.
The humanitarian impact of the wars has fueled growing criticism of Israel among many Americans, particularly within the Democratic Party. At the same time, concerns over rising antisemitism have led Jewish organizations and community leaders to emphasize the importance of events that celebrate Jewish identity and heritage.
Organizers of this year’s parade selected the theme “Proud Americans, Proud Zionists.” Mark Treyger, head of the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York, said the focus should remain on those participating and on fostering a sense of safety and inclusion for Jewish New Yorkers.
Some Jewish leaders criticized Mamdani’s decision to stay away. Jonathan Greenblatt, chief executive of the Anti-Defamation League, argued that the parade represents Jewish pride and community rather than support for any specific Israeli government.
Mamdani is not alone in skipping the event. Several politicians aligned with progressive and democratic socialist movements have also chosen not to attend. Congressman Brad Lander plans to participate in alternative community activities, while Representative Ritchie Torres will miss the parade because of a scheduling conflict.
Despite those absences, numerous state and city leaders are expected to march, including Governor Kathy Hochul, Attorney General Letitia James, Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, City Comptroller Mark Levine, and City Council Speaker Julie Menin. Former Mayor Eric Adams has also said he will participate as a private citizen.
Israeli officials, including Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana and other lawmakers, are also expected to attend.
As thousands gather along Fifth Avenue, the parade reflects both New York’s deep ties to its Jewish community and the broader political debates surrounding Israel, identity, and public leadership in an increasingly polarized environment.