Here comes Santa Claus, here comes Santa Claus, right down Santa Claus Lane.
Or is it Main Street?
Clarkston’s Holiday Lights Parade, the eighth annual procession of holiday floats, music, and twinkling lights, is set to wind through the city’s downtown Sat., Dec. 13 at 6 p.m.
This year’s theme, Ice and Lights, will reflect in entries scheduled to take part in Clarkston’s only nighttime parade.
‘I just love this event,? said Clarkston-area Chamber of Commerce Director Penny Shanks. ‘It’s so cool because you see this glow from the lights as the parade starts coming around Church Street to make that turn onto Main Street, and you hear the audience go ‘ohhh.? It’s just magical.?
The parade, which is sponsored by the Chamber, begins at the Clarkston Community Education building on Waldon, moves west on Church Street to Main Street and continues to Miller Road, where it ends at St. Daniel Catholic Church.
‘These floats are handmade,? said Shanks. ‘They’re not rented, they’re not the same thing you see every year, they’re unique.?
Along with five traditional award categories, a new People’s Choice award will also be presented this year.
‘We’re looking for and listening for audience feedback,? Shanks said. ‘If you really like something, applaud and cheer as the floats pass the DJ stand on Main Street.?
Based on audience response, she said, judges will bestow the People’s Choice honor on the winner after the parade.
Most Creative, Best Costuming, Best Use of Theme, Best Use of Lighting, Holiday Spirit (largest number of participants) will be awarded before the parade.
The parade begins promptly at 6 p.m., but spectators can show up early to enjoy the holiday decorations and ambiance downtown.
A DJ will set up on the steps of Clarkston State Bank and begin piping holiday music onto Main Street about 5:30 p.m.
Any groups wishing to participate in the parade can register until Dec. 8.
‘This is a wonderful opportunity for anyone who wants to be part of a really good hometown event,? said Shanks, noting there’s no fee to participate. ‘Just let us know you’re coming so we can make sure you’re in a good spot.?
It’s also important, she pointed out, not to throw candy to spectators.
‘It’s a dark parade, and we can’t have children running into the street to get candy,? she said.
Those who participate will be in good company; Santa and Mrs. Claus, of course, will take a break from their busy holiday schedule to make a special appearance.
‘But Santa has a very strict rule,? said Shanks. ‘No imposter Santas or Mrs. Claus. Anyone who violates that rule is going to get coal in their stocking.?