THUNDER BAY - The holiday season is still more than two months away, but organizers of the Annual Rotary Christmas Parade said it’s never too early to start planning ahead.
On Thursday, the 26th Annual Rotary Christmas Parade, which will be held on Nov. 19, was launched and co-chair, Volker Kromm, said the parade takes a lot of planning.
“It takes a lot of time,” he said. “For me, right now, we are kind of waking people up to realize what it takes to put a float together. It took me about a month last year to construct. A lot of people are putting a lot of energy and effort in to arranging for children and horses and dogs. For them, a month is not enough time.”
This year the parade will feature an international theme, which Kromm said fits in perfectly with the Rotary Club.
“We are going to be hoping that the participants capture that theme and give an international flare,” he said. “There are so many traditions around the world and Thunder Bay is becoming quite a diverse demographic with different cultures and we want to share that.”
Last year the parade also included a little bit of competition, with floats being awarded in various categories. On Thursday, last year’s winners were recognized, which included Eric Kaminski of the Knights of Columbus.
The Knights of Columbus float included a traditional Christmas manger scene, with a stable and figures made out of wood and ceramic.
“We never even shot for this award,” said Kaminski. “It was a surprise that it came up. We do what we have to do to make sure the word of Christ comes out during Christmas time and all year round. Our main thing is charity.”
Kromm, who has been participating in the Annual Christmas Parade for several years, said it is so popular with the community because it’s becoming a family tradition for many.
“There are thousands of children that line the streets and the joy of seeing the floats and the colours and the pageantry,” he said. “And there are a few treats along the way. It’s about the families celebrating together.”
Kromm said that every year he is amazed by the floats brought out by the community and he is hoping that this year will be no different.
“We are hoping to have some pretty amazing floats and people are already constructing,” he said. “There was a lot of excitement. I think it’s getting a little competitive out there.”
So while it still might be a month away, Kromm said that’s no reason to put off getting ready. After all, some things shouldn’t be put off.
“Thunder Bay is traditionally a last minute town, but to do a great job, you need to plan,” he said.
