Bluffton Prepares for Festive 53rd Annual Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony

Bluffton Gears Up for a Joyous Holiday Season

The charming town of Bluffton is all set to sprinkle some holiday magic as it prepares for the 53rd annual Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony. It’s that delightful time of year again when the community comes together to celebrate the festive season with heartwarming traditions and fun activities.

Kickoff to the Festivities

The festivities will officially begin on December 6 at 5:30 p.m. with the Tree Lighting Ceremony in Martin Family Park. This year, residents can look forward to a brand-new feature: a delightful train ride that will be available from 6 p.m. till 8 p.m. Now, isn’t that exciting? Following the tree lighting, families can gather at Dubois Park’s Pavilion for Santa’s Workshop, where the beloved classic, “Polar Express”, will be screened at 6:30 p.m. Visitors are encouraged to bring along blankets or chairs to ensure a cozy movie-watching experience!

A town spokesperson emphasized, “Martin Family Park and Dubois Park are adjacent to each other on Boundary Street in the Historic District,” making it easy for everyone to enjoy the celebrations in close proximity.

Parade Day and Menorah Ceremony

The main event, the Christmas Parade, is set for December 7 at 10 a.m. This lively parade will wind through Bluffton’s Historic District, providing a festive backdrop for all who attend. But that’s not all! On December 29 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., the town will also host a Menorah Lighting Ceremony at Martin Family Park, giving everyone a chance to celebrate diverse holiday traditions in our community.

Safety and Regulations to Remember

As with any parade, there are a few important rules to keep in mind. The town has specifically stated that throwing candy or other items from any float or vehicle is strictly prohibited. Participants can distribute items hand-to-hand by walking alongside parade entries instead. “This way, everyone can enjoy safely!” mentioned a town spokesperson.

To facilitate the parade, the Bluffton Police Department will begin closing roads at 8 a.m. on December 7. Motorists are advised to move their vehicles parked along the parade route by 7 a.m. to avoid towing. Areas such as Bridge Street, Calhoun Street, and others should be noted for closures, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for parade-goers.

Participating in the Parade

If you’re interested in being part of the parade, remember that entries are limited to 125 and are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. The town encourages all participants to contribute to the Mayor’s “Stay Safe, Bluffton!” Scholarship Fund instead of a traditional entry fee. This initiative aims to support Bluffton’s students and promote safe driving within the community.

Applications for parade entry are available on the town’s website, with a friendly reminder that submissions are due by November 8!

Weather and Viewing Options

Whether it’s sunny or drizzly outside, the parade will go on as scheduled! The town has stated, “The parade happens rain or shine,” and preparations are in place to ensure everyone has a wonderful time, regardless of the weather conditions. If you can’t make it to the parade in person, fear not! You can catch the live broadcast on local television, thanks to the Beaufort County TV (BCTV) channel, ensuring no one misses out on the festive cheer.

Safety Measures for Families

This year, a new safety feature has been introduced: a Lost and Found Children Safety Station. If any little ones become separated from their families during the event, they can head to the Town of Bluffton Tent in front of Town Hall. Staffed from 7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., this station ensures children will be kept safe until they are reunited with their parents.

In summary, the holiday season in Bluffton is shaping up to be one filled with joy, laughter, and community spirit. So, mark your calendars and gather your friends and family to make cherished memories at these wonderful events!