The “City of Lights” Parade kicks off the holiday season on Saturday, November 29th at 4:30 p.m. The Office of Cultural Affairs and Special Events and our local partners; the Greater Merrimack Valley Visitor and Convention Bureau, Chamber of Commerce, National Park Service and many, many more have outdone themselves with a parade prelude that promises something for the entire family.
New this year:
Ø Holiday Art Stroll from Noon – 4pm featuring the local studios and galleries
Ø Strolling Street Musicians
Ø Caroling by the “Gentleman Songsters”
Ø Ride on the “Holiday Express”, a decorated trolley from noon – 2 pm courtesy of the National Park Service featuring a reading of the classic “Polar Express” with hot chocolate and cookies for the kids
Ø Face Painting by the Revolving Art Museum
Ø Hay Rides by Charmingfare Farm
Ø Holiday Treasure Hunt
Ø Special treats and offerings from our downtown restaurants, cafes and stores
The festive parade steps off at 4:30 p.m. with Grand Marshall Tom McKay leading more than 70 regional groups including the UMass Lowell Marching Band, Manchester Muchachos Drum & Bugle Corps, Saint Alfio’s Band, costumed characters, performers, revelers and floats. All along the parade route the holiday lights will be lit culminating in the lighting of City Hall by special guests Santa Claus, Mayor Bud Caulfield and Jim Campanini.
Following the parade from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m, a “Parade of Lights Choral Concert” will take place at St. Anne’s Church featuring the Gentleman Songsters and St. Anne’s Choir singing the Holy Night of Miracles Cantata.
We hope that families will take full advantage of the expanded offerings and make a day of it downtown.
Anyone interested in volunteering should contact Michael Paglia at the Mayor’s Office at 978-970-4040.
