The PUERTO RICAN FRIENDLY DAY PARADE OF GREATER CLEVELAND first began in 1969. The parade celebrates the culture of Puerto Rico (See: HISPANIC COMMUNITY), and strives to unite the city’s residents and to educate them about the rich culture and history of Puerto Rico.
The parade has generally attracted over 25,000 people. The event gives attendees the chance to sample authentic Puerto Rican cuisine, view cultural presentations, and for children to participate in in a variety of activities. Since its beginning, the parade has been a fixture of the CLARK-FULTON neighborhood. In recent years, the Hispanic Police Officers Association of Cleveland has been involved in organizing the event, as a way to give back to the community and to create a spirit of community between the police and the neighborhood. In the 51st Annual Parade, the parade began on the corner of Fulton Rd. and Trowbridge Rd., and ended at Roberto Clemente Park, where an all-day, family-friendly festival took place. 2020 was the first year the parade was not held since its start in1969 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Vinod Sardesai