The annual Downtown Christmas Parade is back on December 7th at 5 p.m. with the fun theme “Ugly Christmas Sweater”. Parade entries are encouraged to get original with their floats and incorporate ugly Christmas sweaters in a creative way! The “Ugly Christmas Sweater” Parade will begin at 5 p.m. The route will start on Main from 7th St. to 10th St., then continue from 10th to Broadway, and Broadway from 10th back to 7th St.
Mike Beard will serve as the parade’s Grand Marshal. Current Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Beard is a longtime supporter of Downtown Mt. Vernon. He previously owned an insurance company for several years in Downtown Mt. Vernon and knows the importance of promoting and supporting downtown business. In his current position at the Chamber, Beard hosts a variety of events, programs, and networking opportunities for the community.
Parade awards will be given in the following categories: Best Use of Theme, Best Performance, Best Use of Lighting, and Best Youth Entry. Contact the Mt. Vernon Convention & Visitors Bureau at 618-242-3151 or [email protected] to receive a parade entry form today.
Immediately following the parade, head to 9th St. between Main and Broadway for the Downtown Tree Lighting Ceremony, free hot cocoa and popcorn, visits with Santa in his cottage, make and take crafts, food concessions, cookie decorating, and singing.
The festivities are supported by Mount Vernon Convention & Visitors Bureau, Downtown Mt. Vernon Development Corporation, downtown merchants, and other community businesses on the committee. For more information on the event, please contact Melynda Breeze at (618) 242-2800 or contact the Mt. Vernon Convention & Visitors Bureau at (618) 242-3151.
Grace Payne, Marketing Executive
Mt. Vernon Convention & Visitors Bureau
(618) 242-3151
