Peoria Standard

Peoria, the eighth-largest city in Illinois, is home to the longest-running Santa Claus Parade in America. This beloved event has been a staple of Thanksgiving weekend in the River City for an impressive 136 years. Last year's parade, held on the Friday after Thanksgiving, featured 80 floats that brought joy and holiday spirit to the streets of downtown Peoria.

The Santa Claus Parade in Peoria is more than just a procession of floats. It is a vibrant celebration that brings together thousands of adults, teenagers, and children alike. The parade showcases a variety of costumed characters, novelty walking units, decorated floats, and marching bands. Of course, the highlight of the parade is the appearance of Santa and Mrs. Claus, who never fail to delight the crowds with their presence.

One of the unique aspects of the Peoria Santa Claus Parade is its commitment to competition. Each year, the parade adopts a new theme, and awards are presented in various categories based on different types of floats. In 2022, awards were given for Best Novelty Unit, Best Overall Unit, Best New Entry, Best Commercial Float Entry, Best Non-Profit Float Entry, and Best Religious Float Entry. This competition adds an extra level of excitement and creativity to the parade, as participants strive to capture the essence of the theme and impress both the judges and the spectators.

The Santa Claus Parade in Peoria is not just a local event; it has become a cherished tradition that attracts visitors from near and far. With an estimated attendance of 5,000 to 8,000 people each year, the parade brings the community together and welcomes the holiday season with open arms. The floats come from a diverse range of groups, including not-for-profits, novelty organizations, religious institutions, and commercial entities. Local high school marching bands also play a significant role in adding to the festive atmosphere.

This year, the Santa Claus Parade in Peoria is scheduled to take place on Friday, November 24, at 9:15 a.m. The theme for this edition is "Musical Notes and Holiday Floats," promising a delightful blend of music and seasonal cheer. Participants who are interested in joining the parade are encouraged to sign up, and float sponsorships are available for those who wish to contribute to this cherished community event.

The longevity and significance of the Santa Claus Parade in Peoria have not gone unnoticed. Representative Ryan Spain, who represents Peoria, expressed his admiration for this longstanding tradition, saying, "The people of Peoria are proud of their traditions, and the Santa Claus Parade represents a tremendous display of civic pride each holiday season. Every year, the city comes together to gather and celebrate this incredible parade. It's amazing to see the dedication and creativity come to life."

Indeed, the Santa Claus Parade in Peoria is a testament to the community's spirit and unity. As the 136th edition approaches, the excitement is building, and the people of Peoria are eagerly anticipating another unforgettable display of holiday magic.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://repryanspain.com/2023/11/27/peoria-hosts-longest-running-santa-claus-parade-in-america/