Kensington Celebrates 58th Annual Labor Day Parade & Festival

Kensington, MD - This morning, hundreds of residents lined the streets of downtown Kensington to attend the town’s 58th annual Labor Day Parade & Festival. The event, held rain or shine, began promptly at 10:00 a.m. and featured colorful floats, marching bands, community organization entries, and vintage cars parading along Montgomery Avenue and Plyers Mill Road.

The festivities continued through 2:00 p.m., with a family-friendly festival in Kensington Town Park offering live music, food vendors, an arts-and-crafts fair, and children’s activities. Local bands entertained the crowd from the main stage set up near the historic train station, while community groups distributed information about upcoming civic programs and volunteering opportunities.

Mayor Tracey Steed delivered opening remarks at the parade’s grand marshal float, thanking participants and volunteers for keeping the small-town tradition alive. “This parade is a celebration of both labor and community,” she said. “It reminds us of the hard work and dedication that built Kensington and continues to strengthen our town today.”

Highlight entries included the Kensington High School Marching Knights, whose drumline performed synchronized routines, and the Kensington Volunteer Fire Department’s antique fire engine, eliciting cheers from spectators of all ages. The Town’s Chamber of Commerce reported an estimated 1,200 attendees, matching pre-event forecasts for near-record turnout.

Despite overcast skies, spirits remained high. Attendee Maria Gonzalez praised the inclusive atmosphere: “It’s wonderful to see neighbors come together with smiles, music, and great food. The parade truly brings our community closer every year.”

The annual Labor Day Parade & Festival is organized by the Kensington Labor Day Committee and supported by local businesses. Proceeds from vendor fees help fund next year’s event and other town-sponsored activities throughout the year.