Paris, Tenn.–Round up your Christmas lights, extension cords, kiddos and something with wheels – it’s time for the annual Holly Jolly, Electric Christmas Parade. Sponsored by the Downtown Paris Association, the parade takes place on Saturday, December 10 at 5:00 pm immediately following Santa’s Christmas Festival.
Individuals, families, businesses, churches, and other organizations are going online to VisitDowntownParis.com and downloading the registration form and map, according to Vickey Roberts, parade committee member.
Given this busy season, the parade committee encourages small entrees. In the past, entrants have been extremely creative, lighting up all sorts of vehicles including floats, golf carts, ATVs, yard tractors, commercial vehicles, and even marching units.
“A real benefit of this parade is that it is a night event, which means that, for the most part, the eventgoers only see the lights. There’s no need to fuss with details that are involved in a daytime parade,” said committee member, Missy Hamilton. “It’s one of the most popular events of the Christmas season.”
Commercial floats are especially welcome. The committee suggests that businesses enter a lighted float, and afterward, park their entry at their location through the end of the year. “It’s a creative way to stretch their marketing dollars,” according to Committee Member Kathy Ray. Businesses also may enter commercial vehicles that are decorated and lighted.
This year, the parade will follow an alternate route which will begin at the First United Methodist Church on the corner of E. Blythe and S. Poplar Streets. It will head north to First Baptist Church, turn right on Ruff, then return on Brewer Street. There is a $25 entry fee.
Trophies are awarded in the following categories: Most Christmas Spirit, Best Religious Theme, Best
Decorated Float, Best Decorated Golf Cart or Small Tractor, Best Marching Unit and the coveted Clark Griswold Award for the best, knock-your-socks off entry.
Applications and guidelines are available online at VisitDowntownParis.com and at the DPA office inside the Chamber of Commerce. For more information call the DPA office at 731-642-3431.
The Downtown Paris Association is a 501C3 non-profit organization that promotes prosperous business activity and community involvement while encouraging preservation of the downtown area.
Photo: Mrs. Santa had a moment with The Grinch at the 2019 parade. Shannon McFarlin photo.