Paducah refuses to let the pandemic rain on its parade.
Instead of canceling the annual Christmas parade that draws large crowds and makes social distancing almost impossible, Paducah Parks and Recreation came up with an innovative solution to keep everyone safe—Christmas in the Trees at Noble Park. The floats don’t move, but you do. This reverse drive-through parade features dozens of dazzling floats designed by local organizations as part of an annual competition. Some of these whimsical creations have music, lights and animation—microcosms of performance art.
In keeping with the theme, each float is required to have a Christmas tree, and many are expected to boast over-the-top yuletide decorations.
Past years have produced Lion King-themed floats, patriotic floats and one with Santa driving a sleigh draped in lights.
For kids, being showered with candy is a parade highlight. They still will get their treats, but in individual goody bags.
Special Events Superintendent Molly Tomasallo Johnson said that, despite adjustments to the event, she’s confident it will bring joy to this western Kentucky community at the confluence of the Tennessee and Ohio rivers.
“This year may be a bit different due to COVID,” Johnson said, “but we all still need Christmas cheer and the camaraderie that our float building and annual competitions bring—now, maybe more than ever.”
