After a pair of weather-related postponements on Saturday and Monday evenings, the Charleston Christmas parade is finally set to roll Friday afternoon at 5:30, according to Mayor Sedrick Smith Sr.
The official lighting of the community Christmas tree, which stands in the courtyard of Charleston City Hall, will be held soon after the parade, and the public is invited to observe the ceremony, which usually includes the singing of Christmas carols.
Although no rain is in the forecast for Friday, temperatures will be on the chilly side. A daytime high in the mid-40s and a nighttime low in the mid-20s are predicted along with a north wind making it feel even colder, so parade-goers would be wise to dress warmly.
Grand marshal of this year’s parade is retired Charleston educator Monroe Grant, a longtime social studies teacher at Charleston High School.
The theme of this year’s parade is “An Olympic Christmas: A Christmas of Many Nations.” Participants are encouraged to decorate vehicles, floats and any other entries based on the Christmas symbols or customs of nations around the world.
Lineup of floats and other entries will begin at 3:30 p.m. at the former National Guard armory on South Cossar Avenue. Judging of floats will begin at 5. The parade is sponsored by the city.
First-, second- and third-place trophies will be presented to floats, and other awards will be given.
For more information about the parade or tree-lighting ceremony, contact City Clerk Vanisha Powell or Deputy Clerk Felisha Porter at 662-647-5841.
