In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Auburn’s 55th annual Veterans Parade on Saturday, Nov. 7, could be held in the usual way, or in a reverse parade option.

Or, for the first time ever, virtually.

“At this time, the City of Auburn has no plans to cancel the parade, but contingency plans are in place for alternate options, if needed,” according to a press release from the city.

Exactly what a “virtual” parade would look like remains up in the air, in what at the moment is a highly fluid situation, according to Kalyn Brady, the city of Auburn’s public information officer.

“Things are changing so quickly, it’s pretty much impossible to know yet,” Brady said.

Whatever the case turns out to be, the city is now accepting applications for the parade.

Registrants should register online at www.auburnwa.gov/vetsday. With parade registrations in place, the event organizer can more easily transition to an option for celebration, should that be needed.

Parade applications must be received by Oct. 5 to be considered. The city will review applications after the deadline, and entries chosen will receive an official confirmation and complete event information.

“The safety of the parade participants and parade spectators are of upmost importance. As the event approaches, the city of Auburn will make any necessary changes to ensure the safety of their participants and spectators. The city of Auburn considers it an honor and privilege to host this event,” according to the city.

The parade, one of the largest of its kind in the United States, typically includes nearly 6,000 parade participants and features military marching units and vehicles, veteran units, marching bands, honor guards, drill teams, antique military vehicles and equipment, floats, antique cars and more. The parade proceeds west on Main Street from E Street NE to A Street NW.

Among the currently scheduled events related to the celebration are a community breakfast, a Remembrance Ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park, the state’s largest marching band competition, a luncheon to honor veterans and a VFW Open House.

Visit the City of Auburn’s website for up-to-date details at www.auburnwa.gov/vetsday.