NORTH TONAWANDA – The North Tonawanda Neighborhood Watch’s Dyngus Day Committee is proud to announce former North Tonawanda Fire Chief Joseph D. Sikora as the Grand Marshal for the 5th Annual North Tonawanda Dyngus Day Parade. A lifelong resident who dedicated over three decades to protecting the public, Sikora will lead this year’s parade down Oliver Street.
Sikora began his service in 1990 as a firefighter, steadily rising through the ranks—including Captain and Assistant Chief—before being appointed Chief in 2016. A graduate of North Tonawanda High School, he earned a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Buffalo State College, providing a strong foundation for his leadership in public safety. He resides in the city’s First Ward with his wife, Stacy, and is the proud father of his sons, Cody and Travis.
The Dyngus Day Parade Committee unanimously selected Sikora as this year’s Grand Marshal. “We are proud to have Joe Sikora lead this year’s parade,” said Joe Marranca, Chairman of the North Tonawanda Neighborhood Watch. “Since the parade’s inception, he has been a steadfast supporter in his role as Chief. His decades of dedication to protecting our city make him the perfect choice to lead this celebration of community and tradition, and we are excited to have him at the forefront.”
Sikora expressed his gratitude for the honor, saying, “North Tonawanda has always been my home, and I’ve been proud to serve this community throughout my career. It’s incredible to see how this event has grown over the years, bringing people together to celebrate our traditions. To be named Grand Marshal of the Dyngus Day Parade is truly special, and I look forward to celebrating with friends, family, and neighbors.”
This year’s event has garnered support from numerous local businesses and sponsors, including Wurlitzer Events Banquets & Catering, Wardynski’s Meats, and WBBZ-TV. “We are incredibly grateful for the ongoing support of the community, our volunteers, and sponsors—which is essential for making this celebration a success,” Marranca added.
Those interested in marching in the parade can sign up here. Following the parade, the celebration continues at the City’s Farmers Market with an after-party featuring live music by Captain Tom & the Hooligans, Polish food, a beer tent, and more. To commemorate the day, official NT Dyngus Day Parade t-shirts are available for purchase here.
In keeping with the event’s commitment to giving back, a portion of this year’s proceeds will benefit the Veterans One-Stop Center, a local non-profit dedicated to assisting veterans as they transition to civilian life. Additionally, a pre-party at Fattey Beer on Saturday, April 19th will support the cause, with $1 from every draft beer purchased donated to the organization.
“We’re looking forward to another incredible year of celebrating NT’s Polish heritage and bringing the community together,” concluded Marranca.
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