Appleton Christmas Parade set for Nov. 24
The 55th Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade kicks off at 7 p.m. Nov. 24, signaling the beginning of the holiday season. The anticipated crowd of nearly 80,000 will begin staking out their favorite viewing spots starting at noon.
"A special kind of holiday magic takes over College Avenue on parade night," said Corey Otis, City of Appleton Parade Committee Chairperson. "Between the brilliant light displays, the spectacular floats, and the incredible pageantry, it’s an absolutely enchanting evening."
The event will feature music from nearly two dozen bands, including the Appleton City Band, along with a wide variety of entries. The parade's theme is Christmas Past, Present, and Future.
Former Appleton mayor Tim Hanna will oversee this year’s parade of sights and sounds as parade marshal. Hanna is currently the Executive Director of the Local Government Institute of Wisconsin. He also leads Hanna Strategic Leadership Consulting, mentoring local leaders across Wisconsin to strengthen their communities through collaboration.
"Former Mayor Hanna’s enduring commitment to dignity, respect, and community partnerships has left an indelible mark on Appleton,” said Otis, “and we are honored to celebrate his legacy."
Spectators can bring non-perishable food items to College Avenue, where Lawrence University will collect cans, pasta, peanut butter, and more for St. Joe’s Food Pantry before the parade officially begins
At approximately 6:40, the traditional Community First Credit Union Santa Scamper will begin. This one-mile run/walk event starts at the corner of College Ave and State Street and ends at Jones Park. More information and registration can be found on their website.
The parade will be televised live and rebroadcast on WFRV-TV Local 5 (CBS affiliate). Follow the City of Appleton Parades on Facebook and/or visit the Appleton Parades page on the City of Appleton website for news and updates on this year’s event.
