Lawrence Ks Christmas Parade: A Holiday Tradition

The city of Lawrence, Kansas, is known for its vibrant community and festive atmosphere, and one of the highlights of the holiday season is the Lawrence Ks Christmas Parade. This beloved tradition has been a staple of the city's holiday celebrations for decades, bringing together residents, visitors, and local businesses to kick off the festive season in style.

The Lawrence Ks Christmas Parade is a cherished event that takes place every year in early December, typically on a chilly winter evening. The streets of downtown Lawrence are transformed into a winter wonderland, with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a magical atmosphere that gets everyone in the holiday spirit. The parade is a special time for families, friends, and neighbors to come together and enjoy the sights and sounds of the season.

The parade itself is a spectacular display of floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus, who makes a special appearance to spread joy and cheer to the crowds. Local businesses, schools, and community groups take part in the parade, showcasing their creativity and festive spirit with elaborately decorated floats, costumes, and performances.

History of the Lawrence Ks Christmas Parade

The Lawrence Ks Christmas Parade has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. The first parade was held in 1920, and it was a humble affair, with a few floats and a small marching band. Over the years, the parade grew in popularity and size, with more participants and spectators joining in the fun. Today, the Lawrence Ks Christmas Parade is one of the largest and most popular holiday events in the state of Kansas.

Parade Route and Schedule

The Lawrence Ks Christmas Parade takes place on a designated route through downtown Lawrence, typically starting at 6th Street and Massachusetts Street and proceeding west to 11th Street. The parade begins at 11:00 am and lasts for approximately two hours. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early to secure a good spot along the parade route.

Parade Participants and Entries

The Lawrence Ks Christmas Parade features a diverse range of participants, including:

• Local businesses and organizations
• Schools and community groups
• Marching bands and musical performances
• Floats and decorated vehicles
• Santa Claus and his elves

Parade entries are encouraged to be creative and festive, with prizes awarded for the best floats, costumes, and performances.

Parade Themes and Special Events

Each year, the Lawrence Ks Christmas Parade has a special theme, which is reflected in the parade entries and decorations. Past themes have included "Winter Wonderland," "Holiday Magic," and "Season of Giving." In addition to the parade, there are also special events and activities, such as:

• A tree-lighting ceremony
• A holiday market with local vendors
• A visit from Santa Claus at the Lawrence Public Library
• A festive concert at the Lawrence Performing Arts Center

Volunteering and Sponsorship Opportunities

The Lawrence Ks Christmas Parade relies on volunteers and sponsors to make the event a success. Opportunities are available for individuals and businesses to get involved, including:

• Volunteering to help with parade setup, judging, and cleanup
• Sponsoring a parade entry or event
• Donating to the parade fund to support event expenses

Benefits of Volunteering and Sponsorship

Volunteering and sponsoring the Lawrence Ks Christmas Parade can have numerous benefits, including:

• Giving back to the community
• Promoting local businesses and organizations
• Enhancing the holiday experience for residents and visitors
• Supporting a beloved community tradition

Conclusion: A Timeless Holiday Tradition

The Lawrence Ks Christmas Parade is a timeless holiday tradition that brings joy and cheer to the community. With its rich history, festive atmosphere, and special events, this parade is a must-attend event for anyone in the area. Whether you're a local resident or just visiting, the Lawrence Ks Christmas Parade is sure to put you in the holiday spirit.

We invite you to join us for this special event and experience the magic of the Lawrence Ks Christmas Parade for yourself. Mark your calendars for early December and get ready to jingle all the way!