The WRAL-TV Raleigh 69th annual Christmas Parade this weekend, on Nov 23. This event, along with Winterfest, kicks off the holiday season in the Triangle.
Shop Local Raleigh sponsors the parade which draws tens of thousands of spectators to Downtown Raleigh and Hillsborough Street area.
The parade starts at 10 a.m from the corner of Hillsborough and St. Mary’s Street. Bands, floats, marchers, and other take the 1.2 mile routes to the Capitol, then finally down Fayetteville Street.
The LRHS concert band continues its representation at the parade. For many members, this is one of top annual events.
As symphonic band member, Danielle Benson, senior, performed in last year’s parade. This Saturday’s parade is her last.
“It is a bittersweet moment especially when you see the kids in awe when the ask, ‘How can they march and play at the same time’,” said Danielle Benson.
Benson spectated the parade many years before she became an integral part of the event.
She said, “As a child I’d always go. I just loved the variations of songs and performances like the jump ropers and other performers from all places. You never knew who would come next.”
This holiday season, the entertainment and cultural value of the parade is unmatched. The Leesville community encourages students and teachers plus their families to come out and enjoy the parade. The downtown amenities will allow for an eventful Saturday. Open from 11:00 a.m to 11:00 p.m, Winterfest will provide some icy fun for those at City Plaza.
Students can enter the conversation on Twitter through #WRALparade, tweet their location, and stay updated with the latest entries.
For those unable to attend the parade, tune in to WRAL-TV to watch the event live or watch the live stream on their website.
Read last year’s parade article: https://www.themycenaean.org/2012/12/hark-jingle-jolly-joy/
