JARRETT GOODMAN
Staff Writer
Vicki Messer, secretary for the Marion County Chamber of Commerce, came forward during Jasper’s recent city meeting to announce the chamber’s plans to expand the community’s yearly Christmas Parade.
Messer explained during the meeting how she and other members of the chamber have recently been looking towards expanding the town’s Christmas Parade event as part of their initiative to add more recognition to Jasper. One of the ways mentioned was by inviting local vendors to the event. Thirteen food trucks are currently onboard to participate, with more to potentially join as well.
Messer explained that she has spoken with Streets & Sanitation Director Justin Baker regarding blocking off Courthouse Square to make room for both the vendors and the parade route. She also stated that the square would also be blocked off to make room for the local businesses remaining open during the event.
“We do know that Jasper Drugs will be in business that day, and we’re not going to take it away from them. We’re going to back up and not block them so that they have parking, and their customers will not have any problems whatsoever,” said Messer.
Vicki also explained that a community Christmas tree will be set up within the square, with residents and visitors invited to place an ornament onto the tree. Businesses located in the square are encouraged to decorate for the holiday season, and all vendors will be stationed in the square on Saturday, December 13 from 2 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. before the annual parade begins. However, hours are always subject to change.
The idea to add on to the parade was inspired by a remark once made by a local resident who felt the town was like a “Hallmark Christmas” while lit up with Christmas lights during nighttime hours. Vicki and the chamber are currently looking to expand the idea further into other communities within the county, aiming to grow other events and holiday parades to festive new heights each year.
Disclaimer: In last week’s article regarding Whitwell’s Labor Day festivities, it was mentioned that Sandy Tennille is the co-director of Whitwell’s park advisory. This statement was incorrect, for she is the park director of Whitwell City Park. We apologize for the inconvenience.