Roswell families can mark Saturday, Oct. 3, for the city's 76th Annual Youth Day Celebration, a free event that takes over Canton Street from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The Frances McGahee Parade launches the day at 10 a.m. It stages at Roswell Area Park off Woodstock Road, then marches down Canton Street toward Roswell First Baptist Church and City Hall, according to Hoodline. Roads along the parade route close no later than 9:45 a.m.
After the parade, four activity zones open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Art Block, Fall Farmyard, Truck Zone and Food Truck Alley. Art Block, at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center, features craft booths and live cirque performances.
The 2026 parade theme is "Tapestry of Generations," tied to America250 in Roswell, the city's year-long observance of the nation's 250th anniversary. The Georgia Sun reported that the theme honors the generations that built the community as well as its youth.
The celebration dates to 1950, when local parents organized a parade and activities for Roswell's young people. The parade was renamed in 2007 for Sara Frances McGahee, a former Roswell Bank banker and longtime civic volunteer who was named the city's Volunteer of the Year in 2000.
The City of Roswell posted on X on Sept. 25 advising families to bring water, sunscreen, hats, comfy shoes and candy bags for the parade.
For live updates on weather, traffic and safety during the event, text ROSWELLEvent to 888777. The text service is free. Full event details are available at visitroswellga.com.
Upcoming community events
- Saturday, Oct. 3 — 76th Annual Youth Day Celebration, Canton Street, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Free.
