Temperatures may still be warm, but plans are underway and applications are now available for anyone that would like to participate in the 20th Anniversary Celebration of the Spirit of Christmas Parade in Collegedale. Beginning at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 8, this holiday tradition is undergoing a few changes this year. A new shorter parade route is planned to encourage more participation, reduce the line-up time, and help those who walk the entire route. The route will be one mile long beginning at OYA Ballfields/East Hamilton Park and end at Ooltewah Middle School.
Participants will also have the option to be a part of the “Show Stop,” a special area added to the parade route. Parade participants will have the opportunity to stop in the designated area, in front of the Tractor Supply parking lot on Apison Pike, and give up to a two minute performance.
Another recent change is the leadership of the parade officially transferred to the city of Collegedale. “The city wishes to thank The Samaritan Center and Midnite Oil for 19 years of ‘Spirit of Christmas’ Parade leadership,” said Traci Bennett-Hobek, director of Collegedale Parks and Recreation. “We want to thank everyone for their participation in this community event that brings joy and entertainment to kick off the holiday season.”
Parade applications can be picked up at Collegedale City Hall, 4910 Swinyar Dr., or printed from the link on the Parks and Recreation website at www.collegedaleparksandrec.com. The entry fee is a $25 donation with all proceeds going to The Samaritan Center. Completed applications with entry donations are due by Monday, Nov. 25, and brought to Kristi Wheeler at Collegedale City Hall, Monday through Thursday, 8a.m.-5 p.m., Friday from 8 a.m.-noon.
For parade questions, call 468-1971 or email Traci Bennett-Hobek at thobek@collegedaletn.gov.