The City of Appleton Parades Committee is now accepting applications to participate in the 53rd Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade on Tuesday, November 26, 2024.
The Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade is the largest nighttime parade in the Midwest. The parade will begin at 7:00 p.m. and move east on College Avenue from State Street to Drew Street. The Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade annually draws 80,000 spectators to Downtown Appleton. Additionally, a television and online audience of more than 100,000 view the parade live and during rebroadcasts on WFRV-TV Local 5 (CBS affiliate).
All floats and walking units are encouraged to embrace this year’s theme: “The Avenue of Christmas Spirits.” While the Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade signals the beginning of the holiday season, it’s also an opportunity for people of all ages to come together and celebrate. “This year’s theme highlights the holiday magic, joy, and wonder of College Avenue,” said Corey Otis, Appleton Parade Committee Chairperson. “We invite participants to explore the festive enchantments, cherished traditions, and playful elements of the season.”
This year’s parade marshals are Mark Behnke and Bobbi Jo Paschke, the longtime owner and manager of Bazil’s Pub & Provisions, Olde Town Tavern, and Firefly Lounge. After more than three decades of running the establishments, Behnke and Paschke recently transferred control of the Appleton landmark institutions, but both will remain integral pillars of Appleton through Behnke Properties. “Not only do we honor Mark and Bobbi Jo’s legendary tenure in Downtown Appleton,” said Otis, “we also salute their generosity, dedication, and innovation in cultivating College Avenue.”
Organizations interested in participating in the Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade must complete and submit an official application by October 4, 2024. Groups may apply via the City of Appleton Parades Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/appletonchristmasparade), U.S. Mail, or this link: https://tinyurl.com/XMASPARADE2024.
Follow/Like the City of Appleton Parades page on Facebook for news and updates on this year’s event.
