Sixteen months after New York City became the nation’s first COVID-19 hotspot, the essential workers who battled on the pandemic’s dangerous frontlines were honored with a parade down the iconic Canyon of Heroes (watch above).

“They deserve a march down the Canyon of Heroes, because it’s something that is reserved for the greatest folks in history. Well, here are some of the folks who made history in New York City’s toughest hour,” said Mayor Bill deBlasio.

Sounds of marching bands filled the streets as confetti rained down on nurses, ambulance drivers, sanitation personnel, grocery store employees, transit professionals, and educators – among 260 groups of essentially workers.

“What a difference a year makes,” said Sandra Lindsay, a critical care nurse from Queens who was the first person in the U.S. to get a COVID-19 vaccine in December. “Fifteen months ago, we were in a much different place but thanks to the heroic efforts of so many – healthcare workers, first responders, frontline workers, the people who fed us, the people who put their lives on the line, we can’t thank them enough.”

About 2,500 people marched in the parade. Spectators held up “Thank You” signs and joyously rang bells as floats passed by.

“It’s just wonderful to see the city come out and thank our workforce,” said Sarah Feinberg, interim president of New York City Transit.

Eric Adams, who was declared the winner of New York’s Democratic primary for mayor on Tuesday night, was in attendance. “We need to honor them [essential workers] with pay equity … we need to show them the respect they deserve,” Adams told a reporter.

“We’re feeling a lot of gratitude for all of the sacrifices that people have made — missed family meals, sleepless nights, weekends working — all the things that helped to keep New York City safe over the last 18 months,” New York City Health Commissioner Dr. Dave Chokshi said. “We’re also feeling some reflection, some sadness, of course, for the people who aren’t able to join us and celebrate as we are today and we’ll always keep those memories in our hearts at the same time.”