It is that time of year! From the beginning of September through the end of December, it is a whirlwind of activity from one birthday, party, holiday and parade after another, culminating with the New Year. This is my season and I love it. One of the "must see" events of the season is the annual Christmas parades that are held in our small towns.
As a child, I grew up watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade on television. The only parade I can remember actually attending is my school's Homecoming parade. Therefore, since I was deprived as a child and am permanently scarred, I have always made sure my child attended parades whenever possible. In my small town, parade attendance is mandatory.
The annual Callahan Christmas Parade is an institution and occurs on the first Saturday in December. Although the parade does not officially begin until 11:00 a.m., if you are not there by 9:30, the chance of finding a parking spot is slim to none. And there is a good reason to be there early, as the Callahan Christmas Parade is the place to see and to be seen. Like any good Southern town, if you aren't here, we will just talk about you, bless your heart!
From the Fire Trucks and Rescue Vehicles, church floats with Nativity scenes and Shriners, to the Pirates and their ship complete with a booming cannon, the Callahan parade is a delight to the senses. When you add in the talented musicians in the West Nassau Warrior Band along with the convertibles driving the Beauty Queen's, you have the ingredients that make up an almost perfect small town parade. Then, the "after party" begins as soon as the police reopen the main road to traffic. The parade is the centerpiece, but the local bar-b-que, crafts and other vendors are what make this an all day event.
Later in the evening, the place to be is the Macclenny Christmas Parade in Baker County. As well-done as the Callahan Christmas Parade is, Macclenny has a slight advantage, because of two reasons. One, is that the parade is at night, adding a magical element to the sights and sounds. All of the parade participants are decked out in their finest Christmas lights and combined with the cooler weather, if you are not in the Christmas spirit by then, you are probably just a Grinch at heart.
This parade has more Beauty Queen's that I have ever seen in one parade. Their sparkly ball gowns and glistening tiaras twinkle beneath the lights and add a glamourous touch. And I'm always amazed at how well the local high school band can play in the dark, and they are fabulous! Next, is my very favorite part of the Macclenny Christmas Parade and the second reason for its superiority: The Baton Twirlers! These girls are phenomenal! This year, several of the girls were twirling fire batons and in the fashion of Suzanne Sugarbaker, they threw those fire batons in the air and they caught them!
My family's attendance at The First Saturday in December Christmas Parades is a tradition that I started years ago after my daughter was born. There is no substitution for the sense of community and pride that comes from being a part of these small town events and they are the perfect way to jump start your Christmas Holiday spirit!
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