The Winslow Christmas Parade is a well attended event that takes place the Saturday before Thanksgiving every year. This year marks the 71st annual parade, which will be held on Nov. 18.
When asked just how many people from Winslow and surrounding areas attend, Chamber of Commerce Director Bob Hall said, “I used to estimate about 10,000 people in attendance. Then one year, the Wells Fargo stagecoach driver said, ‘I think I would put it at about 30,000.’”
Hall explained that the lifted perspective of the driver offered a vantage point to see just how deep the crowds are. Despite that many attendees, Hall noted, “It’s disappointing that we don’t have more local participation, from people who actually live and do business in Winslow.”
The parade was originally started following World War II as, “sort of a way to prelude to the Christmas season and to encourage people to shop locally,” Hall said. “That’s why it’s always so disappointing, especially given the fact that it started for local businesses.”
There are multiple reasons to participate in the parade as a local business. For example, Hall said it’s an opportunity to thank the community for having come to your establishment throughout the year, not to mention the marketing reasons merchants would benefit from participation.
“There are many local businesses and entities that we would love to see in the parade as entries,” said Hall. He mentioned church groups and clubs from the schools, such as the cheerleaders, that at one time were staples each year. “It would be great to get that local community feel back,” he noted.
Hall made sure to express his gratitude for Winslow citizens who come as spectators to the parade, as well as the home based vendors that line the streets each year. He also explained how grateful he is, “to our friends on the reservation for their participation in our Christmas Parade, they really bring quality entries and vendors.”
The Winslow Christmas Parade is known across the state as one of the biggest events of its kind. Each year, a theme is assigned to the parade by the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. This year’s theme is A Hollywood Christmas.
“We hope it evokes ideas that remind you of your favorite Christmas movies and that you have fun creating an entry that depicts it,” Hall said.
The chamber board also nominates and selects a grand marshal for the parade based on community involvement and positive impact on the community.
Margie Herron will be honored this year. She has long been a volunteer in Winslow, serving on various boards and committees such as the Historical Society and the Old Trails Museum board, and is a descendant of Barney Stiles, an original Hashknife cowboy in the Winslow area.
Float entries in the parade have the option to be judged by a five-person panel selected by Hall. Those who choose to participate in the judging will be required to meet certain criteria, such as effective use of materials, color, originality, quality and how well they represent the theme of the parade. Awards are customized plaques provided by the Chamber of Commerce.
The parade begins at the intersection of Alfred Avenue and Second Street in front of the Winslow Police Department, and proceeds east on Second Street to Colorado Street, then doubles back, heading west on Third Street.
The parade is free to participate in and it is free to vendors that day. The City of Winslow waives the vendor fees each year, but food vendors must possess a food handler’s card, available from the county health department. Vendor booth space is on a first come first served basis, and should be set up clear of sidewalks.
Historically, the Winslow Christmas Parade has seen toys, souvenirs, jewelry, arts, crafts and food being sold. This year, there are strict ordinances in effect to make the parade experience happy and safe for all involved. For example, throwing candy or other items from floats, vehicles and horses is strictly prohibited, as well as the sale or use of pressurized party string and poppers.
For information or an application to enter the parade this year, stop by the Chamber of Commerce at 523 W. Second St., or call (928) 289-2434. The deadline for entries is Thursday, Nov. 16.
