by Shawn Nowlin
People usually appreciate it when event organizers go above and beyond to create a community event that is inclusive, free and family-friendly. Such an occasion occurred on May 10 when the Annual Daisy Art Parade marched through downtown Roanoke.
Now in its third year, coinciding with the parade last Saturday were various vendors and local artisans. When the parade kicked off, Corey Milton was in attendance with a camera in one hand and a bottle of water in the other.
“The opportunity to attend this year’s Daisy Art Parade with my two younger sisters and best friend from college was too good for me to pass up. They all had a great time, just as I knew they would. Most of the giant puppets that came down the street I was familiar with,” he said.
Led by artist Brian Counihan, the Annual Daisy Art Parade is an “intentional community building strategy.”
“Making art can bring people together, build community and help communities have a common purpose with their neighbors,” states the organization’s website.
Continuing, it says, “We want to help the citizens of our city start making community art by making groups that we call krewes. A Krewe is a social group that wants to do something for others. You don’t have to be an artist or creative to be in a Krewe, but you should like rolling up your sleeves.”
Children under 12 being accompanied by an adult, required written waivers and homemade costumes were some of this year’s parade guidelines.
As Jayla Melendez saw people walk through downtown Roanoke holding up signs and letting loose while having fun with strangers, she couldn’t help but think, “Man, the Star City has some incredibly talented and dedicated individuals. Everyone who participated in the parade or worked behind the scenes should be really proud of themselves.”
In just three years, the Annual Daisy Art Parade has grown tremendously. This year’s event was made possible with support from the Roanoke Cultural Endowment, National Endowment for the Arts, the City of Roanoke through Play Roanoke and the Roanoke Arts Commission.
For the most up -to-date information, visit https://daisyartparade.com.
Ryan Bradshaw, who says he’s attended every single parade, is already looking forward to next year. “It seems like each year, an artistic touch is added. If the past few years are any indication, I’m sure that next year will be even better than this year. I can’t wait!”
