56th Adoration Parade to use new parade route

When the first of over 50 marching bands, drum and bugle teams, parade floats, and other units steps off in the 56^th Branson Adoration Parade shortly after the Nativity Scene on Mt. Branson is lit at 5:00 p.m. on December 5, 2004 it will be on a new parade route through historic downtown Branson. The change is caused because of the Branson Landing redevelopment project taking place along the Lake Taneycomo Lakefront.

The parade will start at the corner of College and Sycamore, proceed one block west on College and turn north on Commercial. It will continue four blocks north on Commercial to Atlantic where it will turn west for one block to Business Highway 65. The route then proceeds south on Business 65, approximately seven blocks, to Long where it turns east for one block on Long and ends at the corner of Long and Sycamore.

The 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. It’s combination of non commercialism, the theme of “Keeping Christ in Christmas,” and the time of day it is held make it one of the most unique parades in America, if not the world. It is one of Americas few night time parades and every float must carry their own self contained lighting system. 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 well over 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.

For further information contact the Branson/Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce & CVB 1-417-334-4084 or 800-214-3661.

Originally Published In the Branson Courier Dec. 12, 2004.