Reston Town Center presents the 22nd annual Reston Holiday Parade on Friday, Nov. 23 at 11 a.m. to launch the festive season with Macy’s-style balloons, musicians, dancers, antique cars, and more. This one-of-a-kind, one-hour parade along Market Street will also welcome the arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus in a horse-drawn carriage. The Reston Holiday Parade is held rain or shine, and since 1991 it has been an annual tradition on the day after Thanksgiving. The full day’s schedule is listed below, and more information is available at www.restontowncenter.com/holidays.
“Come Out to Play!” is the parade theme for 2012 with huge balloons, floats, and costumes inspired by all kinds of fun games, sports, and music. The Reston Holiday Parade attracts approximately 10,000 spectators from near and far to see at least seventy groups, amounting to approximately 500 participants in the procession.
Special guest emcees will announce the procession from two VIP grandstand locations on Market Street. Grand Marshal for the 2012 Reston Holiday Parade is Bruce Butler, who retired from his post as principal at South Lakes High School in June. VIPs and dignitaries will also take part in leading the parade, including Reston founder, Robert E. Simon, Jr. Continuing another tradition, prior to the 11 a.m. start, thousands of Reston Town Center jingle bell lanyards will be handed out to children along the route as they wait for the parade to begin.
After the parade, Santa and Mrs. Claus will stay for visits and photos until 4:30 p.m. and will return to light up the huge Christmas tree at 6 p.m. The tree lighting will be emceed by DC-region radio personality icon, Cerphe, and attracts a gathering of approximately 5,000 people to Fountain Square for a half hour Sing Along of traditional Christmas songs. Horse-drawn carriage rides begin at 6:30 p.m.
Full information about Holidays are Here at Reston Town Center is available at www.restontowncenter.com/holidays.