The annual Christmas parade will begin at 5 p.m. Dec. 3. All entries must be lighted and display a parade number which will be provided the day of the parade. If a float is being sponsored, the name of the sponsor is to be on the float.
Everyone - churches, civic clubs, schools, organizations, businesses and individuals - is encouraged to particpate. There are no categories. Participants are encouraged to design their lighted entries with any expression of Christmas creativity. In the interest of safety, as this is an evening parade, candy should not be thrown from floats.
Floats will be judged and prizes given for first second and third places. Chamber buck gift certificates will be awarded in the amounts of $50, $30 and $20 respectively.
The parade line-up will begin at 4 p.m. at the California swimming pool located on Stella Street. At 5 p.m the parade will proceed east on Stella turning right on Owen Street, then left on Patrick Street and left again on Oak Street. The parade will proceed north through the uptown business district turning right on East South Street, then left on High Street through part of the downtown business district and terminating at the courthouse. Following the lighting of the Christmas tree on the southwest corner of the lawn and the announcement of parade and house decorations winners, Santa and Mrs. Claus will greet children at the People's Bank. Christmas carols will be provided by "Sounds of Joy," the CHS select choir under the direction of Michele Bilyeu. Pictures will be taken of children with Mr. and Mrs. Claus and may be purchased from the Chamber for $2 each.
The Christmas parade is part of Christmas California Style sponsored by the California Area Chamber of Commerce. Parade committee members are Hope Hoellering representing Putnam Chevrolet, Chris Long of Central Bank and Brad Baer of Baer Brothers Woodworking.
Parade entry forms my be picked up at the Chamber office.