NICEVILLE, FLORIDA - Many Twin Cities area residents will soon be joining Santa in the annual Yuletide march down Niceville’s main thoroughfare. The 42nd annual Niceville-Valparaiso Community Christmas Parade, sponsored by the Niceville-Valparaiso Rotary Club, will be held Saturday, December 1, beginning at 10 a.m. The theme of this year’s parade is “Star Spangled Christmas.”

Hundreds will pick their favorite spot along John Sims Parkway to watch and welcome the floats, marching bands, young gymnasts, clowns, elves and other parade participants. Traditionally, Santa brings up the rear of the parade from his sleigh perched on top a fire truck.

The parade route is from John Sims Pkwy at the Bayshore Dr. intersection to Chicago Ave. in Valparaiso, though road construction may lead to a change in the route. A judging stand will be located in front of “Angels R Us” Daycare located at 170 N. John Sims Pkwy. First, second, and third places will be awarded for Commercial Floats, Church Floats, Club/Non-Profit Floats, Best Marching Unit, and Best Performing Unit.

Registration forms may downloaded from Niceville.com (click here for entry form) or picked up at Niceville City Hall or the Niceville Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce. Also, you may call 897-0800 to have a form faxed. Completed forms must be returned by November 29 to the Niceville-Valparaiso Rotary Club, P.O. Box 388, Niceville, FL 32588. Please call David Dowden at 897-0800 or Jimmie Boisjolie at 678-3110 ext 1125 if you have any questions.