NORWICH – Thousands of spectators are expected to line the downtown sidewalks Saturday night to celebrate the kick-off of the holiday season as the 17th Annual Parade of Lights illuminates city streets with holiday music and decor.
Despite last year’s turnout being the largest in the parade’s long-standing history, this year’s celebration will be even bigger, according to parade coordinator Mike McCormack. This is McCormack’s first year as the leading parade organizer, and he said participants are fired up and making preparations to put on a memorable show. Sponsorship from the Norwich Pennysaver, The Evening Sun, the Norwich Police and Fire Departments and the Norwich Merchant’s Association have all ensured that the parade be a great time for all.
“I’ve seen a lot of enthusiasm from the participants this year. They’re very excited, organized and eager to respond,” McCormack said.
With 60 registered parade participants, including 35 floats and seven different fire companies from Norwich, South New Berlin, Oxford and Plymouth, the turnout of parade-goers is expected to reach new milestones this year. Six special characters, including Santa Claus, will be joining the ranks of the parade, bringing with them some lively animation that’s sure to please children and adults, said McCormack.
Of course, the biggest attraction in every year’s parade are the floats. This year, floats will compete for the approval of six judges: Roz DeRensis, Patty Brown, Bruce Beadle, Joyce Zummo, Stan Cwynar and Todd Dreyer. As usual, judges will be assessing each float based on four essential criteria: Originality of design, visual excitement, effectiveness of communicating theme and best use of lights.
Special recognition is given to this year’s Grand Marshal, Linda Green, longtime Evening Sun employee and parade coordinator for 16 years.
“We lost an important part of the parade when she retired,” said McCormack, adding that it’s an honor having her in the acclaimed seat and he looks forward to her contributions.
“The Norwich City Police Department and Fire Department are working with me to ensure that the parade runs smoothly,” McCormack said, but he still has some pre-parade jitters. “One of my biggest hopes is that the weather is in our favor.”
Holiday music will host in the parade in the downtown intersection, featuring two local acts: Kaitlyn Jackson, a Norwich native and Nashville recording artist, will perform from 5 to 5:30 p.m. and Solo Acoustic Artist Shawn Hawkins will perform from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Toys for Tots will also be collecting donations throughout the evening and the Norwich Career Firefighters will sponsor Twelve Twenty Four – a free concert in the park – immediately following the parade. Additionally, parents and children are invited to follow Santa to his East Park Igloo after his parade debut.
The 17th annual Parade of Lights is scheduled to step off at 6:30 p.m. Saturday in downtown Norwich.
“I hope that we have a big turnout and that everyone has a lot of fun,” McCormack said, “with a performance that makes the young and the old smile.”