By Martha Jacob –
It’s hard to believe it’s been almost a year since the Mt. Orab Christmas Parade took place, but on Saturday, Nov. 25 the parade will once again stroll through the village.
Members of the Christmas Committee have been busy working on this year’s floats for several weeks already and are anxious for the big event.
Registration forms are available by calling the mayors office at (937) 444-2281 or by visiting the website at www.mtoraboh.us.
“The Village of Mt. Orab Christmas Parade will begin at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 25,” said Missy Schneider, member of the Christmas Parade Committee. “The parade line up for the parade will start at 4 p.m. at the Western Brown High School rear parking lot. This year our entries will enter on Campus Blvd to the rear of the high school to line up.”
Every year the parade has gotten bigger and better, adding new characters like Minnie and Mickey Mouse, the Chipmunks, many Disney characters and this year is no exception.
“We are so excited this year to be adding Beauty and the Beast characters,” said Mt. Orab Mayor, Bruce Lunsford. “Kids won’t believe just how real they all seem.
“When we decided to purchase the two new costumes, one of our council member, Woody Whittington picked his son to wear the costume of the beast. We had to send all his measurements to a company in China and the costume was especially designed to fit him. He’s a big guy and that beast really comes to life. We are very proud of this new addition.”
The parade will turn east off of Bronco Blvd. and proceed to the center of the Village turning south onto South High Street, pass by the Brown County Press office ending on Smith Avenue. Parking will be available this year at the Western Brown Middle School, the old Ford garage and Dollar General store for spectators to park and watch the parade from West Main Street if they choose to.
“This year marks our 11th year and it is sure to be one that no one will want to miss,” Schneider said. “There will be 3 high school marching bands in this year’s parade along with several floats and equestrian entries that will be lit up with Christmas lights. It’s truly a spectacular site to see.
“All entries will be lit up with Christmas lights on their floats. Also in this years parade spectators will see Santa and his 9 reindeer, Dory and Nemo, 101 Dalmatians, Gingerbread Men with Mrs. Clause and of course Beauty and the Beast along with many other favorites.”