by Shawn Nowlin
The Delta Dental Dickens of a Christmas is the Roanoke Valley’s largest holiday celebration. The city’s tree lighting took place Dec. 1, on Salem Avenue next to the Market Building. Additionally, the popular SPCA Pet Costume Contest will return on Dec. 15. However it was the thousands who gathered downtown Friday, Dec. 8 for the annual Christmas Parade that for many, officially kicks off the valley’s holiday season.
Spectators of all ages gathered for the celebration with the youth enjoying themselves arguably as much as the adults. Featured were more than 100 props, floats, cars, stage settings, marching bands, characters and other attractions.
Creating unforgettable memories is what the parade is all about. All one has to do is show up. The best way to experience the parade, according to Amy Jefferson, is to arrive early, wear comfortable clothes, take plenty of pictures and bring something to sit on.
“December 8 was a day that I had circled on my calendar for weeks. There was a sense of unity that was palpable. In all the years I have attended the parade, this one was probably my favorite. It exceeded all my expectations and then some. So much fun from start to finish,” she said.
Every December, the parade happens, rain or shine. Jefferson Street at Elm Avenue is where this year’s celebration began at 6:30 p.m. before turning onto Campbell Avenue, going past Market Square and ending on Williamson Road.
David Jones and his wife passed out candy, something they’ve done for years. “We relish the opportunity to put a smile on a child’s face whenever one is presented. People can tell when effort is put into something and when it is not. There is a reason why this event is so popular,” he said.
Explained Community Engagement & Communications Manager Joya Garris,” Preparing for Dickens takes several months. We started about six months ago getting all of our vendors and kid zone inflatables and everything in order. We love seeing the kids come out. They get to see Santa; they get to do the Elf on a Shelf adventure. It’s really great to see them having a lot of fun.”
The city’s willingness to invest the necessary resources into the annual parade does not go unnoticed by the community at large.
