Arts/Leisure

Clarksville Christmas Parade delights young and old alike

Wednesday, December 6, 2017

Clarksville, TN – It was a beautiful night Saturday for the 58th Annual Clarksville Christmas Parade in Downtown Clarksville. People lined the streets waiting for the start of the parade. Children were excited in anticipation of seeing the floats and Santa Claus.

Austin Peay head football coach Will Healy was the grand marshal. The theme was “Christmas Around the World”.

The parade began begin on the APSU campus at Eighth Street, went down College Street and then turned on University Avenue. From there, it went around Public Square, then around the Montgomery County Historic Courthouse before turning on Franklin Street and heading back to campus.

More than 130 local businesses, schools, and organizations showcased their Christmas spirit by walking, preparing a float, or driving a fun vehicle decked out in holiday cheer.

Awards were presented to the first through third place winners in each division. Divisions include: Civic/Church; Business/Commercial; and City/County.

This Year’s Winners

Civic/ Church

NWHS Spanish Club
United Way
Guildfield Baptist Church

Government

City of Clarksville
Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office
CDE Lightband

Business/Commercial

Q Realty
Bo’s Towing
Wedding Belles

This year’s parade was presented by the City of Clarksville and Montgomery County Government and sponsored by Clarksville Living Magazine.

At the conclusion of this year’s 58th Annual Clarksville Christmas Parade, Clarksville Mayor Kim McMillan had the honor, once again, of lighting the city’s official Christmas Tree on Public Square.

“I always enjoy lighting the tree,” McMillan said. “I will say that this has been the most entries we have ever had in our annual Christmas Parade. We had more than 125 lighted entries. It was safe, we had great weather, and everybody enjoyed the parade tonight. So many people have told me they’ve had a wonderful time tonight.

“I hope everyone will drive through downtown and see the lights and our tree this Christmas I want to thank the folks at Parks and Recreation who make this happen every year, and be the first to invite everyone to come out again next year.”

The annual lighting of the Montgomery County Christmas tree was also held after the parade at the Downtown Commons main stage. Montgomery County Mayor Jim Durrett counted down with the crowd on hand and officially turned on the tree.

Santa Claus was on had to listen to children’s, and those young of heart, Christmas wishes and handed out candy. There was free hot chocolate and cookies.

“We are excited about moving some of our traditional Christmas activities to the Downtown Commons this year. It provides the community with an additional opportunity to experience the festivities of the season and see the new outdoor skating rink,” said Mayor Durrett.