In Catlin, they are getting ready for their 7th annual Christmas Parade on Sunday, November 27th. The theme is “Christmas in Toyland.” Parade chairman Greg Leonard says they’ve expanded the categories on float entries this year
AUDIO: We are still accepting the traditional floats, which would typically be something on a wagon or trailer. But this year we’re adding a category for ATVs and golf carts as well, just to maybe spur a little more interest. There is no entry fee to get into the parade, whether you want to put in a traditional float or an ATV, there is no charge to do hat. But there is prize money for each category; if you place first, second, or third. The first place prize is $150, second place is $100, third place is $50.
In addition, with the last couple parades trimmed down due to COVID, this year they wanted to bring back a festival style atmosphere. So while the Catlin Christmas parade from Salt Fork High School, along Vermilion to the Village Hall, will start at 6 PM; a Christmas craft bizarre at the parade site will run from 1 to 5 PM all afternoon, along with a photo booth. In addition, a free meal and chili dinner put on by local businesses and community organizations at the Methodist Church is scheduled from 4 to 6 PM. There will also be a local band, the Hangovers, performing some contemporary Christmas music, prior to the parade form 5 to 6.
And finally, for those that want to see the floats but aren’t able to sit out in the cold, remember that all lighted floats from the parade will return afterwards to the Salt Fork High School parking lot, allowing residents to drive through and see the floats from 7 to 8 PM.
Those wanting to enter a float or participate in the November 27th parade, call Cheri at Floral-n-Flair at 217-427-5888, or Allison or Leslie in the Catlin Village Hall at 217-427-2136.
