West Chester announces 225th Birthday Parade

Title sponsored by Benchmark Federal Credit Union

WEST CHESTER >> The Borough of West Chester is announcing the celebration of its 225th anniversary with a spectacular 225th Birthday Parade to be held on Sunday, April 21, 2024 beginning at 1 p.m.

“The entire community is invited to attend this historic event, whether you’re a long-time resident, a newcomer or just passing through,” said Keith Kurowski, Director of the Borough of West Chester Parks and Recreation, which is organizing the parade. “We can’t wait to honor West Chester’s rich history, vibrant community and bright future together.”

Title sponsored by Benchmark Federal Credit Union, West Chester’s 225th Birthday Parade will feature a colorful display of floats showcasing the heritage of West Chester, as marching bands fill the streets with spirited melodies. Community groups, local businesses and other organizations will display their West Chester pride with festive decorations, balloons and plenty of birthday cheer.

“West Chester has come a long way from its humble roots 225 years ago,” said Lillian L. DeBaptiste, Mayor of West Chester Borough. “We have the unique dichotomy of being a quaint, historic small town with a cosmopolitan vibe.”

“We’re ready to make history together, as we commemorate 225 years of West Chester borough during a day that is sure to create lasting memories for years to come,” said Daniel J. Machon, Jr., President and CEO of Benchmark Federal Credit Union, the only federal credit union to serve Chester County exclusively.

Incorporated in 1799, the historic streets of West Chester are filled with more than 75 restaurants and 65 boutiques that prompted the Philadelphia Inquirer to call West Chester “one of the world’s most perfect small towns.”

The borough’s growing population of nearly 64,000 people is in the heart of the Brandywine Valley, just 45 minutes from Center City Philadelphia and 30 minutes from Wilmington.

West Chester’s 225th Birthday Parade begins at 1 p.m. on Sunday, April 21, 2024 at High and Market Streets, proceeding down Market Street and left onto Matlack Street, left onto Gay Street, left onto Darlington Street and left onto Market Street. Opening remarks will be at “Old Glory,” at High and Market Streets at 12:45 p.m. The parade’s rain date is one week later.

Volunteer opportunities and sponsorships are available. For more information, visit https://westchesterpa. myrec.com/info/activities/ program_details.aspx?ProgramID=29871 or contact the Borough of West Chester Parks and Recreation at 610-436-9010, parksandrecreation@west-chester.com

SUBMITTED PHOTO — CHESTER COUNTY CHAMBER West Chester is celebrating a birthday