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GC Christmas Parade Set for Dec. 1

From staff reports

Christmas is coming and planning for the county’s largest Christmas parade is well underway.

Sponsored by the Gate City Fire Department, the Gate City Christmas Parade is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 1. Line-up for the parade starts at 5 p.m. at the Gate City High/Middle School Complex.

Gate City Mayor Frances Perry has been tapped to serve as the grand marshal for the 2012 parade. This year’s theme is “A Storybook Christmas” and organizers encourage floats to follow the theme as much as possible.

“If you wish to have a float entry judged in the parade, it must follow the theme,” explained Jeff Brickey, Gate City Fire Department Chief.

The parade route follows the same route as the past few years. It begins at the Gate City Middle/High School Complex, making a left turn onto Jones Street and then turning right onto Kane Street. It continues along Kane Street to the intersection of West Jackson and East Jackson Street, then turns left at the stoplight onto West Jackson Street.

The parade ends at the Gate City Municipal Parking lot on Water Street.

Due to numerous complaints received from parade-goers from last year’s event, organizers are enforcing some new rules.

“We have received several complaints in regards to last year’s parade regarding out of control horses,” he added. “There will be no horses allowed in the parade unless they are pulling a wagon or float.”

Brickey noted that the new rules are to ensure safety for those watching the parade. “ATVs or motorcycles that are not street legal are also not allowed unless they are with a business, he said. “The driver must also be 18 years old or older.”

Virginia state law forbids the throwing of candy from moving vehicles in parade. And the Gate City Fire Department intends to comply with this rule.

“Due to safety concerns, no candy can be thrown from parade vehicles. Candy must be handed out,” Brickey explained. “Parade participants who are caught throwing candy from vehicles will be removed from the parade.”

if you have any questions regarding the 2012 Gate City Christmas Parade, contact Chief Brickey at (423) 335-8821 or Assistant Chief Jamie Lawson (423) 571-5002.