Budweiser Clydesdales, Military Bowl Parade, and the New Annapolis Route
Every December, Military Bowl Weekend brings a lot of energy to Annapolis. It is one of the most fun and exciting weekends of the year. In the historic capital city of Maryland, this celebration combines college football, community spirit, and holiday customs.
The Go Bowling Military Bowl will start at 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 27, 2025. It will be at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium and will have the East Carolina Pirates playing against the Pittsburgh Panthers. People from all over the area came to enjoy great football and lively neighborhood events.
But there is more to the Bowl than the game. The Military Bowl Parade starts the festivities the day before the game. The parade will feature Medal of Honor Recipients, color guards, youth groups, community groups, and the Budweiser Clydesdales. The parade is now on Friday, December 26, at 2:30 p.m., and it gives fans a full day of events before the game. The world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales Annapolis will be the main attraction of the parade this year, which is extra special. This beloved tradition brings the season to life and draws people of all ages.
The parade’s new path through downtown Annapolis starts for the first time this year. It will go from from Calvert Street to Northwest Street, Church Circle, and West Street, ending at Maryland Hall for the Miracle in Annapolis festival, which is fun for families.
This weekend has something for everyone, whether you live here or are just visiting for the weekend. There will be beautiful horses in lively parades, marching bands, college football games, and even tailgating parties! Join Zavros Place as we take a look at the best things to do in Annapolis during the Military Bowl weekend
The Bowl, The Parade, The Clydesdales
The Military Bowl weekend in Annapolis is more than a college football game. It is a beloved community event that combines a fun rivalry, a celebration of national pride, and holiday traditions into one unforgettable experience. Every December, thousands of people come to Maryland’s ancient capital to enjoy the festive spirit created by the Go Bowling Military Bowl game, the Military Bowl Parade, and the Budweiser Clydesdales.
The Military Bowl: A Tradition of Football and Service
The Military Bowl started in 2008 as an NCAA Division I college football bowl game after the regular season. It has since become a well-known and important part of the college football schedule.
It was first played in Washington, D.C., but in 2013, it moved to Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium in Annapolis. This gave the event a home in the old downtown area of the city and gave fans a beautiful view along the Chesapeake Bay.
One of the last bowl games of the season is this ACC-AAC matchup every year. Beyond the excitement of the game, the Military Bowl Foundation plans to help soldiers and their families. This makes the event even more connected to the military and the community.
The Military Bowl Parade: A Festive Downtown March
The Military Bowl Parade is one of the most exciting events of the weekend. It brings together fans, families, and locals to celebrate and enjoy the show. The parade is on the day before the game. It passes through downtown Annapolis and involves military, community, marching band, and youth organizations. The route is full of spectators who want to witness the dazzling cars and shows.
The parade will feature Medal of Honor Recipients, color guards, youth groups, community organizations, and the world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales. It blends national pride with local community spirit and energetic marching band performances. It is a free, family-friendly event that spreads Christmas cheer and builds excitement for the Bowl.
The Budweiser Clydesdales: A Crowd-Favorite Tradition
The Budweiser Clydesdales in Annapolis are a beloved part of American pageantry and one of the most popular parade sights to take pictures of. No Military Bowl weekend would be complete without them. The Military Bowl events have had these grand horses as a big part of them since the parade started as a tradition. Their big size, shiny collars, and clear presence make people happy.
Their participation gives the party the feel of a big, timeless event, which makes both old and new fans happy. The Clydesdales reflect the Military Bowl weekend spirit of tradition, community pride, and holiday joy, whether they are showing off on historic streets or participating in special events for the weekend’s bowl.
Day One: The Miracle on West Street & Clydesdales Sneak Peek
Military Bowl weekend’s first full day, generally Friday afternoon, is enjoyable and easygoing. Local food, seasonal games, and a close-up look of the Budweiser Clydesdales await fans before the parade and game day excitement.
What to Expect at Miracle on West Street
Miracle on West Street is a free, community-focused event that takes place in downtown Annapolis on the Friday before the Military Bowl game. The event features food trucks, games, and vendor booths, and gives fans a chance to get a sneak peek of the Budweiser Clydesdales before the parade. The event is open to people of all ages and usually lasts for two hours in the afternoon. It has:
- A range of food trucks with local businesses and popular foods
- West Street has games and events for families.
- Vendor booths with seasonal items, crafts, and other things
This block celebration encourages early-weekend downtown Annapolis exploration, socializing, and holiday joy before the crowds arrive. The event is free and accessible to everyone, so visitors and residents may start the weekend together. The street is closed to traffic so that everyone can enjoy a safe place to walk.
Sneak Peek of the Budweiser Clydesdales
One of the best things about Miracle on West Street is that the Budweiser Clydesdales will make an early appearance. They will be brought downtown in a harnessed wagon for a rare close-up view before the main parade. These grand horses are one of the best parts of the Military Bowl. They are brought downtown in a harnessed wagon shape, which gives people a rare chance to see them up close before the main parade.
Fans often put themselves close to the designated Clydesdale area to get pictures, hear the unique sound of their collars jingling, and enjoy the show in a calm setting.
Since the Clydesdales draw a lot of attention, the best way to get clear views and chances to take pictures is to show up early to the event. Their appearance makes the afternoon more memorable, which is one of the most beloved Military Bowl weekend traditions that helps build excitement for the upcoming events.
Day Two: The Military Bowl Parade and New Downtown Route
The Military Bowl Parade on Friday afternoon, December 26, 2025, is the second day of Military Bowl weekend. It brings attention to the celebration of the community and the lively pageantry. This event is now one of the most important parts of Bowl Week. It draws fans, families, and locals to downtown Annapolis to watch a lively parade that shows pride in the military and excitement for game day.
Parade Highlights
The Military Bowl Parade starts at 2:30 p.m. the day before the game, so everyone had a whole afternoon to enjoy the sights and sounds of the party. There are a lot of different groups in the parade that get people excited. Color guards and soldiers’ groups make people feel good about themselves, while youth groups, community groups, and military-themed units show how much the community cares.
The marching bands and spirit groups from the schools in the game make the procession more musical and give the teams more pride. Several people who have won the Medal of Honor, the highest military award in the US, are also members.
This shows how the Bowl is connected to service and giving up something. The Budweiser Clydesdales are once again the main attraction at the event. They bring together one of the biggest crowds and make memories that will last a lifetime for people of all ages.
People on the sidelines wave flags and cheer as the parade goes by. They are in a festive mood and are excited for the weekend. As dozens of groups march toward the end of the parade, the event usually lasts about an hour. This gives people a lot of chances to talk to other people and take pictures.
The New Downtown Annapolis Route
This year’s parade has a new path that will make the experience better for everyone, including those who are unable to attend because of ongoing construction in the historic downtown area. The parade starts on Calvert Street in downtown Annapolis and goes through important streets that show off the city’s beauty and history.
The route goes down Northwest Street to Church Circle, which is a pretty and important intersection in the middle of the city, from Calvert Street. From there, the parade goes on to West Street.
Many local businesses and restaurants are on the blocks there, making it easy for people to see the parade while they eat and use other comforts. The procession ends at Maryland Hall’s Miracle in Annapolis festival, which is a community party where people can keep doing fun activities after the parade.
To make things easier in downtown areas and get more people, both locals and tourists, to participate, organizers changed the path and schedule. Instead of ending near the stadium, the procession now ends at a festival site, expanding Annapolis’ festive mood.
The Military Bowl Parade’s new route is a fun and exciting way to start the weekend’s events, whether you are watching with friends and family on the street or choosing a spot along West Street to get the best pictures. Register now for the Military Bowl Parade!
The Military Bowl Game Logistics
Stadium Location
The game is played in Annapolis, Maryland, at Navy–Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. This beautiful field is close to the U.S. Naval Academy, with lovely views of the Severn River and Chesapeake Bay. It has hosted the Military Bowl since it moved from Washington, D.C., and is famous for its happy vibe and energetic fans.
Game Date and Kickoff Time
The Go Bowling Military Bowl will take place on Saturday, December 27, 2025, with the game kicking off at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time. This early game kicks off a full day of college and professional football. This has turned into one of the bowl season’s busiest days. ESPN will show the game live across the whole country.
Gate Opening Times
In most bowl games at Navy–Marine Corps Memorial Stadium, the gates open about 90 to 120 minutes before start so that fans have time to park, get their bags checked, and get in. The 2025 Military Bowl’s gates will likely open at about 9:30 a.m., allowing people to get comfortable before 11:00 a.m. You may also enjoy tailgates and pregame customs by arriving early.
Ticketing Information
Military Bowl tickets for 2025 are now officially on sale. They usually start at about $45 for general admission, but prices depend on where you sit and how many people want tickets. There are many choices, such as family deals and higher-end bundles that may include food and drinks. All tickets sold by official markets are digital or mobile and must be shown on a device to enter.
Buy from trusted sellers for valid tickets. Premium and hospitality packages can go fast, especially in popular viewing areas near the 50-yard line. Get Your Tickets Now!
Security Rules and Bag Policy
To make sure everything goes well on game day:
- Clear bag policy: You can only bring in small clear bags or stadium-style bags that have been approved. This speeds up security checks.
- No banned items: Most of the time, you can not bring in big things like large bags, coolers, food or drinks from outside, folding chairs, and other large things.
- Digital tickets and ID: Before you get to the gate, make sure you have your ID and mobile tickets ready so the line can keep moving.
There will be standard security measures in place at the stadium, like bag checks and metal detectors at every entrance. Following these rules will help everyone get in faster and more safely.
Pre-Game + Half-Time Expectations
Pre-Game:
Get there early to enjoy the game vibe, listen to the bands practice, and see the teams take the field. There is often music, food, and excited fans interacting with each other around the field and in the parking lot before the game starts.
Half-Time:
At the Military Bowl, performances by school bands, military honors, and entertainment provided by sponsors are all common at halftime. It is a chance to relax, get some food and drink, and take in the holiday crowd before the second half starts.
No matter if you are there for the contest, the show, or the community, knowing how things are going to work will help you get the most out of your Military Bowl gameday.
Essential Logistics: Parking and Getting Around
Parking Options
Stadium Parking
On the day of the game, you can buy official parking at Navy–Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. Parking spots can run out, so booking ahead of time with an official vendor guarantees a place near the stadium. On game days, the stadium lots usually open in the early morning so people can get there before the game starts.
Off-Site and Downtown Parking
Because there is not a lot of space at the stadium, many fans park in public garages and lots close by in downtown Annapolis. Many people choose to park in one of the garages or lots downtown. These are usually about a 10–20 minute walk from the stadium. Park Place Garage and Gotts Court Garage are two well-liked examples. Pre-booking these spots through parking apps or reservation sites gives me peace of mind.
Satellite Parking & Shuttles
For the Military Bowl weekend, you can park at places like the Harry S. Truman Park & Ride and Germantown Elementary School lots and take a shuttle to the field on game day. Shuttle service usually begins several hours before the game starts and goes on after the game ends. This makes it a good choice if you do not want to deal with traffic at the stadium.
Holiday Downtown Parking Perks
During the holidays in Annapolis, parking meters and kiosks in the downtown area often allow free parking for a certain amount of time (like two hours), and parking apps can help get free first hour in some buildings. This comes in handy most on parade day and for events in downtown areas before game day.
Road Closures & Traffic Tips
Parade Road Closures
On the day of the parade (Friday), the stated downtown route will have rolling street closures. This route goes from Calvert Street to Northwest Street, around Church Circle, onto West Street, and ends near Maryland Hall. Plan beforehand if you are driving or walking downtown because roads close before the procession and reopen as each segment clears.
Game Day Traffic
On Saturday, there will be a lot more traffic around Annapolis and near the stadium beginning early in the morning because of the game. Getting there 2–3 hours before the start of the game helps you escape the busiest times and gives you enough time for parking, security, and tailgating.
Most of the time, the most delays happen 90 minutes before the start of the event. Traffic officials in the area also say that taking the main roads, like US-50 East toward Rowe Blvd, is the best way to get to the stadium.
Walkability & Shuttle Use
It is easy to walk in Annapolis, and many spaces in the downtown area are close enough to the parade route and the stadium that people can walk to them. It is often faster to use shuttles and walk than to wait in traffic for parking that is close.
Accessibility Info
Accessible Parking
Guests with proper disability placards or license plates can park in accessible parking spaces in designated lots close to Navy–Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. Access is often through specific entrances (like Farragut Road on the north side), and there is not a lot of room, so it is important to arrive early. Shuttle services that are easy to use are usually available from satellite parking lots as well.
Mobility-Friendly Viewing Areas
At both the parade and the stadium, there are areas and paths where people with limited movement can go to see what is happening. These places are close to restrooms or seating, are easily accessible, and have clear sightlines. Organizers typically mark these areas and give information about them in event guides as the date approaches.
Conclusion: A Grand Military Bowl Weekend
The Military Bowl Annapolis weekend is one of very few events that can combine sports, community pride, and the excitement of the holiday season. Annapolis is a bright and welcoming place for families, fans, and tourists during the parade, the Clydesdales, the celebrations in downtown, and the big game at Navy–Marine Corps Memorial Stadium.
Attendees should arrive early, find a parade watching site, and explore downtown before going to the stadium. If you plan ahead, you will have a smooth, memorable experience with many great moments, a fun atmosphere, and amazing views.
A well-planned Annapolis Military Bowl weekend is not just a game; it is a party that you will want to come back to every year.