77th Annual Christmas Parade held Saturday

By ANGELA FARR KING

The 77th Annual Alexander County Christmas Parade was held Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, at 3 p.m. The weather was sunny and cold, which made it the perfect day for a Christmas parade. Something about a warm Christmas parade just isn’t as festive. Onlookers happily bundled up and staked out their viewing spots early. They were ready to scramble for candy that they knew would be tossed by those riding in the parade.

The Grand Marshal for this year’s parade was Brenda Price, a woman known for being a beloved foster mother to many children for years in Alexander County. In 2023, Price was recognized by the County Commissioners with a “Key to the County” for being a licensed foster parent and fostering over 200 children since 1982. Those who nominated Brenda spoke of her selflessness and her willingness to open her home to children at all times. During the parade, several of the children she has fostered over the years rode with Brenda on the Grand Marshal float. Many of them are now adults and some had their own children with them. It was very moving to see.

There was a lineup of 220 participants in the parade and children waiting for it to start began squealing with delight when they saw the blue lights flashing as the police escort made its way down Main Avenue in Taylorsville.

As usual, the Alexander Central Junior ROTC and the marching band were near the front to get the crowd excited. Several antique cars from the Apple City Street Rodders were in line all shined up for the event. Sheriff Chad Pennell was once again tossing candy to the children and even calling some of them by name.

There were some beautiful floats created by businesses and church groups this year. There were also antique tractors, wagons full of local sports teams, political figures riding in cars, the 957 Mobile Cafe delivery truck, the Apple City Broadcasting company, the ACHS Future Farmers of America, the Alexander County Schools Transportation Dept., inductees into the Sports Hall of Fame, and so many more participants in the parade. The best parts of Alexander County chose to participate.

The local fire departments were present and their trucks always add excitement for children and adults as they represent the various communities in Alexander County. Another highlight was seeing local veterans towing their large helicopter down Main Avenue in Taylorsville.

The big finish, as always, was seeing Santa and Mrs. Claus wave to the crowd along with some of their helpers, signifying the end of another yearly tradition in Taylorsville. There seemed to be extra excitement this year at the Christmas Parade, extra joy, an extra dose of Christmas spirit. The years of Covid are over. The tumultuous election is over. Hometown Christmas has begun in the little town of Taylorsville and in conjunction with the annual Christmas parade, the Christmas Season has officially begun in this little part of the world. It’s been a special sight to behold.