The 37th-annual Eagles Christmas Parade in Greenfield will be held at 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 1, and following the parade children will once again be able to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
“It’s for the kids and for the people,” parade chairman Deidra Garrison said in explaining why the Eagles continue to organize the parade year after year. “If we didn’t do it, it would be left to someone else, and it’s not that easy. I’m beaming when they come down through the center of town. It’s like I see my kids coming down through there.”
Garrison, chairman of the parade for the third time, emphasized that lineup for the parade begins at 4:30 p.m. in the Greenfield Research parking lot and exits the lot from the Edgewood exit. She said there is only one Edgewood exit from the parking lot. The parade then travels to Jefferson Street and disbands shortly after it turns onto Washington Street.
Judging for the first, second and third place floats begins at 5:30 p.m. in the Research parking lot. The winners receive plaques and will be recognized, along with all the other entries, by emcee Pat Hays during the parade.
The theme for the parade is Christmas Around The World. It is open to anyone that would like to take part. Those wanting more information can call Garrison at 937-763-5464.
After the parade everyone is invited to the old firehouse on Washington Street where hot chocolate and cookies will be available. Children will be able to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus and will receive a bag of candy to take home.
The grand marshals for the parade are Doug and Kathy Templin.
“We select different people from the Eagles that do a lot for the club,” Garrison said. “It’s just a way to give them a little recognition for all they do.”
Garrison said the parade has done well since it moved to an evening start time a few years ago.
“It’s nice because the dark, with all the lights, it makes them stand out and everything,” she said. “It’s beautiful.”
Reach Jeff Gilliland at 937-402-2522.
