Santa Claus is coming to the Town of Highlands and bringing with him the annual Christmas parade, hosted by Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Visit Highlands, NC, on Saturday starting at 10:30 a.m.
The parade has been a staple of Highlands’ Christmas celebrations since its creation in 1986 by the Highlands Merchants Association, and this year’s event will feature around 60 participants, made up of community groups and local businesses, 16 floats and three marching bands.
“Our parade will [also] have two new offerings this year: For the first time ever, the Pride of the Mountains marching band from Western Carolina University will participate, and the beloved dancing ladies from Mountain Garden Club of Highlands will lead the parade beginning at 10 a.m.,” Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Visit Highlands, NC Communications Manager Kara Addy said.
Spectators can also expect to see live animals participating in the parade, including llamas led by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cashiers-Highlands. After the parade concludes, community members are invited to make their way into Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park and along Main Street as the holiday celebrations continue throughout the day.
“After the parade, Santa will be available in Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park to hear Christmas wishes from kids of all ages,” Addy said. “And everyone is encouraged to visit the shops along and near Main Street and vote for their favorite decorated storefront as part of the Trim Our Town contest.”
Organizers hope everyone will come out and enjoy the parade while spreading the holiday cheer. All spectators are encouraged to arrive early in order to find the best viewing locations and parking. In order to accommodate the parade, Main Street – from 2nd St. to 6th St. – and Leonard and Smallwood will be closed to vehicle traffic.
“Like all the events we organize and host, our Highlands Christmas Parade brings our community together to celebrate each other, our cherished town, and the time of year,” Addy said. “Such events also make it convenient for people to “support local” and create memories for generations of families and friends.”
For more information or questions regarding the parade, contact the Highlands Chamber of Commerce at 828-526-5841.