Clubs, dance teams, churches, businesses and other organizations have a month to register for this year's Bridgeport Christmas Parade, scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 1. 

 

"We are working to get forms out to attendees from last year’s parade but welcome any new participants as well," said Katie Squires, recreation coordinator. "Anyone interested in participating in the parade can fill out a form and mail it to our offices by Wednesday, November 28."

 

As always, units will assemble in the area including and between Fifth Street and Third Street, funneling onto Main Street and progressing East to the Benedum Civic Center. Spectators can line Main Street to cheer on festivities. After the parade concludes, residents can have hot cocoa with Santa and Mrs. Claus; kids having opportunity to share their Christmas wish lists and pose for pictures. 

 

"We are also happy to announce that the Grinch and Olaf will also be available for pictures," Squires said. 

 

The Annual Bridgeport Lions Club Pancake Feed will also be taking place in the lower level of the Civic Center. 

 

Units can register for the Dec. 1 parade by completing the attached form and sending it to Bridgeport Parks and Recreation, 164 West Main Street, Bridgeport, WV 26330. Forms are also available at the office of the Benedum Civic Center. Forms must be received by 5 p.m. Wed., Nov. 28. Participating individuals are asked to call 304-842-8240 the week of the parade to receive instructions on their designated line-up location. Typically, about 50 units participate in the parade, which is one of the city's most popular events of the year and brings out folks to line Main Street. 

 

Light Up Night, during which time the city Christmas tree is lit and city businesses host tents with holiday giveaways, will be held Thurs., Nov. 29. Hosted by the Associated Businesses of Bridgeport, that event annually dresses the city and sets the stage for the holiday parade.

 

Parade units will start lining up at 9 a.m. Dec. 1. Beginning at 8:45 a.m., there will be one-way traffic on those streets and Main Street will be closed to traffic from 9:30 through 11 a.m.