By Jim Knippenberg
The Cincinnati Enquirer

INFOGRAPHIC

• Parade Guide (PDF file)

Strike up the band. Cue the elephants. Unfurl the flags and tune up the tuba.

The 85th annual Findlay Market Opening Day Parade steps off at 11:30 a.m. Monday with 182 units, including 20 bands and drill teams, several tributes to the late Marge Schott, a bunch of convertibles full of celebrities, politicians galore, and a fleet of antique vehicles, including the Talley Ho Wagon pulled by Belgian horses, much as it was when it rolled out of Findlay Market for the first parade.

Dave Parker, the former Cincinnati Red, Pittsburgh Pirate and seven-time All-Star, is grand marshal.

The route is always the same: It begins at the corner of Race and Elder streets, travels south on Race to Fifth Street. Then it's east on Fifth past Fountain Square to Fifth and Sycamore, where it dissolves.

According to parade chairman Neil Luken, the leading edge of the parade should hit Fountain Square about 12:15 p.m. and then continue steadily until about 1:30 p.m. The game, against the Chicago Cubs, begins at 2:10 p.m.

The most popular parade viewing spot is always Fifth Street between Race and Walnut, so it's also always the most crowded. Those who want easier - and roomier - viewing should consider staking a claim somewhere on Race, north of Fifth. If you have a favorite drill team, antique car, politician, marching band or celebrity you just can't miss, refer to this parade guide and you'll have a good idea of when you can expect to see them.

E-mail knippenberg@enquirer.com