57th Annual Christmas Parade Route

November 22, 2021

For Immediate Release

Everyone is happy to hear that the Marshall Christmas Parade will return to its normal route and time, November 29, 2021, starting at 7pm. Michigan Avenue will close starting at 5:30 from Dobbins Street (by Darling ACE Hardware) all the way east to the Shell station by High/Exchange Streets. Parade lineup will occur on Michigan Avenue, west of the fountain circle.

The Marshall High School choir will perform downtown, with sound amplified via the downtown speakers, from 6:15 to 6:45 and the parade will begin at 7pm. “This parade marks the beginning of the holiday season for many people,” stated Matt Davis, parade co-chair. “We are happy to see it back on the downtown streets.” While it is not mandatory, due to continued Covid-19 concerns, spectators should spread out as much as possible and wear face masks. Participants on floats are also encouraged to practice safe social distancing and to mask up. The parade will be live-streamed on Choose Marshall’s Facebook page to allow anyone hesitant or unable to attend in person the ability to enjoy the parade.

The forecast is calling for cold conditions, but whatever the weather the excitement of the parade normally draws a large crowd.

Last year Marshall had a “parked parade” and entries were spaced among the Merry Mile lights display at the Calhoun County Fairgrounds. Spectators drove through the mile-long route to view 30 entries and the thousands of lights that make up the Merry Mile. “We really tried to think outside the box and not cancel events last year,” stated Davis. “We thought we might get around 300 cars during the two-hour parade but ended up with 1,500! We have no idea how many people will come and see our parade this year.”

Thousands of lights will be on the on the 90 entries in this year’s parade. Entries include 10 marching bands, 5 hot air balloons and, of course, Santa Claus! This year’s parade theme is “Giving Has No Season” and is meant to honor the volunteers and employees that have continued to work throughout the pandemic.

Kathy Miller is the 2021 parade grand marshal. Miller has lived in town for nearly 60 years and has demonstrated outstanding volunteerism and pride in Marshall for that entire time. She has served on city council and as the Purple Fairy for the Relay for Life, and also volunteers for the farmer’s market, the Franke Center, the senior center, and many more. Her spirit shines through when she states that the volunteers of Marshall are the true grand marshals of the parade.

The Marshall Christmas Parade is organized in a collaboration between the City of Marshall and MAEDA, the Marshall Area Economic Development Alliance.

For more information call the Choose Marshall Welcome Center at 269-781-5163.

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Contact: Kimber Thompson
Telephone: 269-781-5163
Email: [email protected]
Website: choosemarshall.com