Can you believe Halloween decorations, costumes, cards, and candy are now on the shelves in most stores in Concord?
Labor Day is here and will soon be history with schools already in session. So that means it is time to begin planning for the 61st annual Concord Christmas Parade. Yes, planning is underway for New Hampshire's best holiday parade in the state. From the first year that Chairman Emeritus Patten began in his 41 years which featured two bands, three floats, and a couple of marching entries to now a parade with over 100 units. Patten actually started getting calls or emails about this year's parade back in January and continues to now.
James Cusano who has been co-chairman with me for two years is assuming more responsibilities this year as he continues to step up to the chairman role I held for 41 years. We work well together in keeping Concord's only other parade alive. No matter what age you may be, the sight of Santa Claus, hearing holiday tunes, and seeing the colorful floats can only put you the holiday mood.
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This year changes are coming. The parade time will return to 9:30 a.m. with formation beginning at 8 a.m. The parade route stays the same going from Hazen Drive to Loudon Road ending at the Steeplegate Mall.
The theme for this year will be "Welcome Home for the Holidays" in recognition of many members of the Armed Forces coming home to enjoy the holidays with their families. This year's parade is Nov. 17, due to Thanksgiving being early.
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I had requested the parade also include Veterans Day in the beginning with the Veterans Day holiday Nov. 11 and the parade Nov. 17. The first division will be dedicated to veterans and a patriotic theme. The Committee will seek all members of the American Legion, VFW, Disabled American Vets, Marine Corps League, Gold Star Mothers and the auxiliaries to participate.
The committee is also discussing a new competition for bands in the parade. In addition the Dick Patten Trophy for the best float in the parade. Final details for this float competition will be completed shortly.
This year's 61st annual event promises to be an exciting parade. Please call me at 496-2917 or James Cusano at 225-8308 for information.
