Heartland Homecoming Parade Honors Cal Ripken Jr. as Grand Marshal in Celebration of Sports
Elizabethtown, KY – The Heartland Homecoming Parade is set to achieve new heights as it proudly welcomes Major League Baseball Hall of Famer Cal Ripken Jr. as the grand marshal for this year’s procession. The parade, a cherished annual tradition in Elizabethtown, is scheduled to kick off at 10 a.m. on August 26, commencing from Historic Downtown Elizabethtown and concluding at St. John Road.
The announcement of Cal Ripken Jr. as the grand marshal has elevated the parade’s significance to Hall of Fame status. Known for his illustrious career in baseball and co-founding Ripken Baseball, Ripken Jr.’s namesake baseball and softball tournament have become integral components of the Elizabethtown Sports Park’s summer events lineup. This year, his participation extends to leading the Heartland Homecoming Parade as a symbolic figure of the values that the community holds dear – hard work, sportsmanship, work ethic, and talent.
The Ripken Experience Elizabethtown, in partnership with the sports park, has brought world-class youth baseball and softball tournaments, along with week-long experiences, to the community. Ripken Jr.’s connection with Elizabethtown extends beyond the field, as he expresses his appreciation for the welcoming spirit of the community that has embraced The Ripken Experience Elizabethtown.
“I am honored to be the Grand Marshal in this year’s Heartland Homecoming Parade in Etown,” Ripken Jr. expressed. “I look forward to visiting again on Aug. 26 and celebrating with all the wonderful E’town families.”
The Heartland Homecoming Parade is steeped in tradition, celebrating the rich history of Elizabethtown. This year’s parade theme, “The World of Sports,” aligns perfectly with Ripken Jr.’s legacy and the community’s love for athletic pursuits.
For those interested in participating in the parade, more information and entry details can be found on etownevents.com, the Elizabethtown City Events Facebook page, or by contacting the State Theater offices at 270-234-8258. Entries are open until the end of the day. As the Heartland Homecoming Parade prepares to salute the world of sports and honor Cal Ripken Jr., anticipation is building for a memorable celebration of community, tradition, and athleticism.