Bartow Christmas Parade: A Holiday Tradition For The Family

The holiday season is a time for joy, giving, and making memories with loved ones. For many families in Bartow, Florida, the Bartow Christmas Parade is a beloved holiday tradition that brings the community together in a festive celebration of the season. As the winter months approach, excitement builds in anticipation of this annual event, which has become a staple of the city's holiday calendar.

The Bartow Christmas Parade is a magical experience that delights both children and adults alike. The parade features a colorful procession of floats, marching bands, and of course, the big man himself, Santa Claus. As the parade makes its way through the streets of downtown Bartow, spectators are treated to a dazzling display of lights, music, and holiday cheer. Whether you're a longtime resident or just visiting, the Bartow Christmas Parade is an event not to be missed.

For many families, the Bartow Christmas Parade is a cherished holiday tradition that has been passed down through generations. Children look forward to the parade all year, eagerly anticipating the arrival of Santa and the festive treats that come with it. Parents and grandparents enjoy reliving the magic of the season through their children's eyes, making the parade a truly multigenerational event.

History of the Bartow Christmas Parade

The Bartow Christmas Parade has a rich history that dates back many years. The parade was first organized by the Bartow Chamber of Commerce, with the goal of promoting holiday spirit and community pride. Over time, the parade has grown in popularity, attracting visitors from all over Polk County and beyond.

Today, the Bartow Christmas Parade is one of the largest and most popular holiday events in the region, featuring over 100 entries, including floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa's sleigh. The parade is made possible through the hard work and dedication of the Bartow Chamber of Commerce, as well as the support of local businesses and community organizations.

Parade Route and Schedule

The Bartow Christmas Parade takes place on a designated evening in early December, with the exact date and time varying from year to year. The parade route begins at the intersection of Main Street and Broadway, proceeding north on Main Street to the Bartow Civic Center.

Spectators are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, as the parade route can become quite crowded. The parade typically lasts around 1-2 hours, depending on the number of entries and the pace of the procession.

Parade Entries and Highlights

The Bartow Christmas Parade features a diverse range of entries, each showcasing the creativity and talent of local individuals and organizations. Some of the highlights of the parade include:

• Festively decorated floats, many of which are designed and built by local schools and community groups
• Marching bands from area high schools and middle schools
• Performance groups, such as dance teams and cheer squads
• Antique cars and trucks, decked out in holiday finery
• Of course, the big man himself, Santa Claus, who arrives in style aboard a festively decorated sleigh

Getting Involved in the Parade

The Bartow Christmas Parade is a community-driven event, and organizers rely on the support of local individuals and organizations to make it happen. If you're interested in getting involved in the parade, there are several ways to do so:

• Enter a float or performance group in the parade
• Volunteer to help with parade setup and cleanup
• Sponsor a parade entry or make a donation to support the event
• Attend the parade and show your support for the community

Community Events and Activities

In addition to the parade itself, the Bartow Christmas Parade is part of a larger holiday celebration that includes a range of community events and activities. Some of the highlights of the season include:

• A holiday market featuring local vendors and artisans
• A tree lighting ceremony at the Bartow Civic Center
• A festive holiday concert by the Bartow Community Band
• A visit with Santa at the Bartow Public Library

Supporting Local Businesses

The Bartow Christmas Parade is a great opportunity to support local businesses and organizations, which are the backbone of the community. By attending the parade and shopping at local businesses, you're helping to keep the holiday spirit alive in Bartow.

Making the Most of the Holiday Season

The Bartow Christmas Parade is just one part of the larger holiday season, which offers a range of opportunities to make memories with family and friends. Some other ways to make the most of the holiday season include:

• Volunteering at a local food bank or toy drive
• Hosting a holiday party or gathering with friends and family
• Taking a festive holiday trip to a nearby city or attraction
• Simply enjoying the sights and sounds of the season, whether that's decorating the house, baking holiday treats, or watching classic holiday movies.

Closing Thoughts

The Bartow Christmas Parade is a beloved holiday tradition that brings the community together in a festive celebration of the season. Whether you're a longtime resident or just visiting, the parade is an event not to be missed. So mark your calendars, grab some hot cocoa, and get ready to experience the magic of the Bartow Christmas Parade.

We hope you've enjoyed this article about the Bartow Christmas Parade. Don't forget to share your favorite holiday traditions and memories with us in the comments below!