Plans are underway for Columbus’ Bicentennial Christmas Parade, celebrating 200 years in Columbus.
Normally, the parade is held on the first Monday in December. This year, the parade will host the Budweiser Clydesdales, and in order to accommodate their schedule, the parade will be at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 5.
The parade will also help celebrate the kick-off of the 200th anniversary of the founding of Columbus. The parade’s theme will be “A Hometown Holiday … Past, Present, Future.” Parade organizers want to celebrate the things remembered most when one thinks back on Christmas in Columbus through the years.
Individuals, children’s groups and community organizations are encouraged to consider participating in the Christmas Parade, which will offer competitive and non-competitive categories.
Applications will be available starting Friday at columbusmainstreet.com, or facebook.com/MainStreetColumbus or by calling 328-6305.
Mayor Keith Gaskin said the city is excited to be working with Main Street Columbus on the parade.
“We are planning more activities that will be announced later,” he said.
Barbara Bigelow, executive director for Main Street Columbus, noted that many downtown businesses will be open Dec. 5.
“I have actually wanted to try an afternoon parade for some time and this provides the perfect opportunity, plus how awesome is it that the Clydesdales will be returning to Columbus?” she said. “The Clydesdales were a part of the Christmas parade 2013 and made a special downtown appearance in 2018. To visit our ‘friendly city’ three times in eight years is so amazing!”
Organizers ask parade-goers to keep the event safe, wear masks if they like, social distance and enjoy the parade.
Bigelow said the parade is accepting sponsorships. Any business or individual that would like to support this community parade with a sponsorship should contact Main Street Columbus.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 32 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.