Erwin Christmas Parade

Erwin Christmas Parade. The Erwin Christmas Parade is an annual event held in Erwin, Tennessee, featuring Floats decorated with Christmas lights and Christmas decorations, Marching bands from Unicoi County High School and Tennessee High School, and appearances by Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus. The parade is organized by the Erwin Chamber of Commerce and the Town of Erwin, with support from local businesses such as Food City and Walmart. The event attracts visitors from surrounding towns, including Johnson City, Tennessee, Jonesborough, Tennessee, and Greeneville, Tennessee.

Introduction

The Erwin Christmas Parade is a beloved tradition in Unicoi County, Tennessee, bringing together residents and visitors to celebrate the Christmas season. The parade features a variety of participants, including Floats from local organizations such as the Erwin Rotary Club and the Unicoi County 4-H Club, as well as Marching bands from East Tennessee State University and the University of Tennessee. The event is sponsored by local businesses, including Bank of Tennessee and First Tennessee Bank, and is supported by community groups such as the Erwin Lions Club and the Unicoi County Historical Society. The parade route passes through the heart of Erwin, Tennessee, along Main Street and Jackson Love Highway, and features appearances by local dignitaries, including the Mayor of Erwin, Tennessee and the Unicoi County Mayor.

History

The Erwin Christmas Parade has a long history, dating back to the 1950s when it was first organized by the Erwin Chamber of Commerce and the Town of Erwin. Over the years, the parade has grown and evolved, featuring a variety of participants and entertainment, including Floats from local businesses such as Ingles Markets and Kroger, and Marching bands from Science Hill High School and Daniel Boone High School. The parade has been supported by local organizations, including the Erwin Kiwanis Club and the Unicoi County United Way, and has featured appearances by notable figures, including Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam and U.S. Representative Phil Roe. The parade has also been recognized by regional and national organizations, including the Tennessee Tourism Association and the National Retail Federation.

Parade Route and Schedule

The Erwin Christmas Parade takes place on a Saturday in December, typically starting at 6:00 PM and lasting for approximately two hours. The parade route begins at the intersection of Main Street and Jackson Love Highway, and proceeds through the heart of Erwin, Tennessee, passing by local landmarks such as the Unicoi County Courthouse and the Erwin Town Hall. The parade features a variety of participants, including Floats from local organizations such as the Erwin Volunteer Fire Department and the Unicoi County Rescue Squad, as well as Marching bands from David Crockett High School and Sullivan Central High School. The parade is broadcast live on local television stations, including WJHL-TV and WKPT-TV, and is streamed online through social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter.

Participants and Entertainment

The Erwin Christmas Parade features a diverse range of participants and entertainment, including Floats from local businesses such as Food Lion and Dollar General, and Marching bands from Tennessee Tech University and the University of Memphis. The parade also features appearances by local dignitaries, including the Mayor of Erwin, Tennessee and the Unicoi County Mayor, as well as notable figures such as Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus. The parade is supported by local organizations, including the Erwin Lions Club and the Unicoi County Historical Society, and features a variety of entertainment, including Live music from local bands such as The Johnson City Jazz Band and The Knoxville Symphony Orchestra. The parade also features a variety of activities and events, including a Christmas tree lighting ceremony and a Visit with Santa.

Community Impact

The Erwin Christmas Parade has a significant impact on the local community, attracting visitors from surrounding towns and boosting the local economy. The parade is supported by local businesses, including Bank of Tennessee and First Tennessee Bank, and is sponsored by community groups such as the Erwin Rotary Club and the Unicoi County 4-H Club. The parade also features a variety of community organizations, including the Erwin Volunteer Fire Department and the Unicoi County Rescue Squad, and raises funds for local charities, including the Unicoi County United Way and the Erwin Food Bank. The parade is an important part of the local Culture of Tennessee, bringing together residents and visitors to celebrate the Christmas season and promoting a sense of community and Christmas spirit. The parade is also recognized by regional and national organizations, including the Tennessee Tourism Association and the National Retail Federation, and is featured in local and regional media outlets, including The Erwin Record and The Johnson City Press. Category:Parades in Tennessee