Joe Moglia to Lead 81st Annual Columbus Day Parade in NYC

The Columbus Citizens Foundation has announced that Joe Moglia, a prominent business executive and former football coach, will serve as the Grand Marshal for the 81st Annual Columbus Day Parade on October 13, 2025. Moglia will lead the procession along Fifth Avenue in New York City, which celebrates Italian-American heritage and culture.

About Joe Moglia

Joe Moglia boasts an impressive career that spans both the business and sports worlds. He previously held the roles of CEO and Chairman of TD Ameritrade, where he significantly increased shareholder value, resulting in a remarkable 500% return during his tenure. Under his leadership, the company’s net worth skyrocketed from $700 million to $24 billion, while client assets grew from $100 billion to $7 trillion.

After 24 years in business, Moglia returned to coaching in 2012 as the Head Football Coach at Coastal Carolina. His coaching record includes leading the team to five consecutive National Playoffs and securing four Conference Championships. He has been recognized with multiple coaching awards, including the Eddie Robinson National Coach of the Year and the Lombardi Award.

Parade Details and Legacy

The Columbus Day Parade is set to commence at 11:30 a.m. on October 13, 2025, featuring marching bands, floats, and over 100 participating groups. The route will stretch from 44th Street to 72nd Street along Fifth Avenue. This year, the parade will be broadcast live on ABC-7 from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., allowing a broader audience to join in the festivities.

In addition to the parade, the Columbus Citizens Foundation will host several events leading up to the celebration. A Gala is scheduled for October 11 to raise scholarship funds, while a Wreath-Laying ceremony on October 12 will honor civil servants and first responders who play vital roles in the community.

Reflecting on his appointment, Moglia expressed pride in his Italian-American heritage and the opportunity to celebrate the contributions of those who have shaped New York City and the nation. His selection as Grand Marshal highlights his dual success in business and sports, reinforcing the ideals celebrated by the Columbus Citizens Foundation.

The tradition of the Columbus Day Parade began in 1929 when Generoso Pope led a group of Italian Americans from East Harlem to Columbus Circle. The event was formalized as an official celebration in 1944, and this year marks its 81st anniversary. Notable past Grand Marshals include celebrities such as Sophia Loren, Frank Sinatra, and Joe DiMaggio.

The Columbus Citizens Foundation, based in New York City, is dedicated to promoting awareness and appreciation of Italian-American heritage. Through various philanthropic activities, the foundation provides scholarships to deserving students while organizing the annual Columbus Day Parade, a hallmark of Italian-American culture.

For those interested in more information about the Columbus Day Parade and its events, visit the Columbus Citizens Foundation’s official website.