When the first of over 70 marching bands, drum and bugle teams, parade floats, and other units steps off in the Branson Adoration Parade at approximately 5:30 p.m. on December 8, 2002, it will mark the 54th Anniversary of one of Branson’s favorite Christmas traditions and a change from its traditional date of the 1st Sunday in December. The date has been changed to the 8th of December because of the proximity of the 1st Sunday to Thanksgiving weekend. The parade follows pre parade activities beginning at 4:00 PM and the lighting of the Nativity Scene on Mt. Branson at 5:00 PM in downtown Branson.
The Adoration Parade is a non commercial event honoring the true meaning of CHRISTmas and celebrating the lighting of the giant Nativity Scene high above Historic Downtown Branson on Mount Branson. The Adoration Parade’s combination of non commercialism, its theme, “Keeping Christ in Christmas,” and the time of day it is held make it perhaps one of the most unique parades in America, if not the world. It is one of Americas few night time parades. Every float must carry their own self contained lighting system and many of the marching units have miniature lighting systems on their uniforms and instruments.
The Adoration Parade and Nativity Scene lighting has been an Ozarks tradition for half a century, long before the Branson became a popular Christmas destination. It is first and foremost, a way for those privileged enough to live in these blessed Ozark Hills to have an opportunity to celebrate the birth of the One for whom Christmas is named, the Christ Child, and the hope, love, and peace that He offers
The Parade Route will start at the corner of Oklahoma and Commercial Streets, at the north end of historic downtown Branson, and proceed 6 blocks south to Price Street. At Price Street it will turn east and proceed to Sycamore Street. The route goes north on Sycamore Street, 4 blocks, to its junction with Main Street where it will turn east and proceed to its termination point at the junction of Main Street and Box Car Willie Drive.
For further information contact the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce & CVB 1-417-334-4084 or or the Downtown Main Street Association 417-334-1548.
