38th Annual West Chester Christmas Parade Is Tonight

WEST CHESTER, PA — The 38th annual QVC West Chester Christmas Parade is tonight.

More than 40,000 local spectators and 100 million viewers nationwide are expected for the event, organizers said.

The parade will feature the world's largest rocking horse, Christmas hymns from live singers, a live QVC broadcast, and much more.

The Chester County Food Bank Fresh2You produce truck will also be on the scene.

Local schools, fire companies, marching bands, and other volunteer organizations will participate in the parade.

Here is a tentative schedule, courtesy of the borough:

• 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. - Holiday village of High Street between Gay and Market
• 5:30 p.m. - Registration for Jingle Elf Run at Chester County Running Store
• 6:30 p.m. Jingle Elf Run
• 6:45 p.m. Tree Lighting at High and Market Streets
• 7:15 p.m. Parade Begins at New and Market Streets

QVC hosts Carolyn Gracie and Dan Hughes will serve as Master of Ceremonies, introducing the many special guests, including Miss America, Cara Mund. QVC hosts David Venable, Mary Beth Roe, Dan Wheeler, Stacey Stauffer and Kristine Zell will also be on hand.

Road Closures

Road closures will begin at 10 a.m. on High Street between Gay and Market.

At 3 p.m., Market between New and Bradford will shut down.

At 5 p.m., the following closures will be in effect:

- Gay Street between Matlack and New Streets
- Market Street between Matlack and Bradford Ave.
- Walnut Street between Chestnut and Miner Streets.
- High Street between Chestnut and Miner Streets.
- Church Street between Chestnut and Miner Streets.
- Darlington Street between Chestnut and Wollerton Alley.
- New Street between Chestnut and Market Streets.

Parking

The borough recommends you park in either the Bicentennial or Chestnut Street parking garages downtown. The Justice Center Garage has free parking after 5 p.m. on Friday as well.

Motorists are urged to use caution and to watch out for changing traffic patterns.

Image via Shutterstock and West Chester Police Department