Downtown Prepares for Holly Daze

Crews from the Sanford Parks & Recreation Department this week erected a Christmas tree in Central Park and began hanging decorations downtown in preparation for the annual Holly Daze parade on Friday, Dec. 6.

“I just hope we have a really nice turnout and some good weather for people to kick off the holidays” Sanford Parks & Rec Director Brady Lloyd said on Thursday.

The lineup for the parade begins at 4:40 pm on Dec. 6 on Emerson Street between Main Street and Shawmut Avenue. The parade is set to step off at 5:30 pm and proceed along Main Street to St. Ignatius Street. The tree lighting is set for 6:15 at Central Park. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be in attendance to pose for photos with kids.

Friends of Downtown is organizing a kids’ crafting activity at Knots & Bolts Creating Company at 911 Main St. Other downtown businesses are expected to be open to serve refreshments, too.

The registration deadline for the parade is Tuesday, Nov. 26. All applications and waivers, driver’s licenses, vehicle registrations and insurance information must be turned in to the office by this date. There is a $25 registration fee to enter the parade.

Organizers stress that no one is allowed to throw candy from vehicles during the parade. Each float/group must have walkers alongside their group to help keep the public out of the street, and they may hand out candy.

The parade theme remains “The Holly Daze.” Floats should refrain from using both Santa Claus and or Mrs. Claus as part of the display as the jolly couple will be bringing up the rear of the parade. You may use other likenesses such as the Grinch. As always, lights are encouraged and should be incorporated into your display. Music is a nice touch as well.