Christmas parade takes place tomorrow
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While this entrance will be less spectacular than the one he made by parachute last week at Three Star Mall, Santa is sure to bring a sleigh full of holiday cheer while waving to the crowd.
Members of the 278th will serve as parade grand marshals, with around 30 local National Guardsmen marching in military order as a unit. World War II veterans have also been invited to serve as honorary grand marshals. This was done to pay tribute to the 60th anniversary of the end of WWII.
“I think the community will appreciate the chance to honor the 278th as they’re marching in the parade,” said Jane Flatt, one of the organizers. “And I’m sure it will go both ways as the soldiers will be glad to receive that thanks.”
The parade will feature over 70 entries. Organizers are asking all participants to be at the Civic Center ready to line up no later than 1:30 p.m. Around 2 p.m., the line will begin creeping from the Civic Center toward D.C. Tires, the official starting point. It will leave D.C. Tires at 2:30 p.m.
In keeping with recent tradition, candy will not be thrown to help prevent children from dashing into the street, possibly in front of a float.
However, up to two people can accompany each entry to directly hand candy to children.
“The No. 1 thing we’ve always stressed is personal safety,” said Flatt.
Due to Main Street construction, the parade is again bypassing the heart of downtown and following the same route as last year. Organizers point out that route was well received.
Parade route