St. Augustine — The annual event, now in its 66th year, begins at 9 a.m. from the the Mission Nombre de Dios (San Marco Avenue) and continues south on Avenida Menendez to cruise along the bayfront, then heads west on Cathedral Place and north on Cordova Street to end at the parking Garage on Orange Street.
Thousands are expected to line the streets to watch the St. Augustine High School Band escort Santa Claus along the route. Cars, motorcycles, horse-drawn carriages, horses, dogs and even more bands will add to the festivities of the two-hour Christmas event.
Linda Abbott Producer and Director of the event sponsored by Flagler Health+, describes the day as one for kids.
“When I see those little kids smiling and having fun, that’s the best thing in the world,”” she said. “If that doesn’t melt your heart nothing will.”
Abbott, a former employee for the St. Augustine Chamber of Commerce, says that she worked as volunteer before assuming the role as producer/director 26 years ago.
She’s diligently worked to grow the parade every year. Her “grassroot efforts” have attracted people from far and wide.
“The day is full of fun with everyone having a good time,” she said. “Kids love parades and I love doing it.”
St. Augustine’s mayor Tracy Upchurch says that in addition to the Christmas Parade adding to the City’s annual celebration of Christmas and the winter holidays, the event acts like a magnet that draws people to America’s oldest City, which adds to the area’s economic vibrancy.
“The Christmas Parade is a big boost to our businesses,” he said. “It’s a great opportunity too shop locally, to eat locally and to really just enjoy a beautiful Saturday morning with your family.”
Upchurch added that the morning festivities are also nostalgic for him.
“I actual was an elf in the Christmas Parade when I was small kid, so it’s always been extra fun for me,” he said.
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