The 86th annual Bryan College Station Christmas Parade is coming up soon, and now is the time to sign up.
This year’s theme is Lone Star Christmas, and co-chair Penny Zent says it’s a special opportunity to spread joy.
She say they are looking for all kinds of organizations: bands, youth and adult community service, individual entries, floats, mounted units, school groups, and large and small businesses.
In response to what makes the parade most meaningful to her, Zent says, “The day of the parade, all these children turn out, rain or shine, and when their little faces light up when they see all of the horses and the floats and people dancing and singing, that absolutely makes it all worthwhile.”
She adds, “The parade is for kids, and we want to help them celebrate the spirit of Christmas.”
This year’s grand marshal will be the Texas A&M world championship equestrian team, Zent says, including all fifty-five young women involved.
She says the parade usually has 100-125 entries, and there will be first, second, and third place prizes ranging from $100- $500.
Zent says the entry deadline is 5pm Friday, November the 16th, and you can enter online or submit forms at Bryan Broadcasting in Crystal Park Plaza.
Entry fees vary according to your type of entry, and there’s a mandatory line-up meeting November 26th at the College Station Hilton.
Forms and brochures are available at the BCS Chamber of Commerce, Bryan Broadcasting, KAMU, on the A&M campus, College Station Parks and Recreation, and The Eagle.
The parade itself will be held at 2pm on Sunday, December 2nd.
Penny Zent talks with WTAW’s Kat McMullen
CLICK HERE for quick access to the Christmas parade website
CLICK HERE for a direct link to the application form and rules