The annual Major League World Series is often termed the “Fall Classic,” but for residents of South Williamsport and the surrounding communities, they have their own “Fall Classic” — the South Williamsport Mummers Parade.
This always highly anticipated event will step off again for the 79th time this Saturday, October 17, beginning at 2 p.m.
The streets of the Borough of South Williamsport will be filled with 10 divisions with floats, dance troupes, fire trucks, high school bands, and an assortment of other entries, and a yearly appearance from the Nittany Highland Pipe Band. And there will be a special appearance by Santa, who will once again be looking for who is naughty and nice in the crowds.
The theme of this year’s parade is “Decades of Music,” though you don’t necessarily have to adhere to the theme in order to be a parade participant.
The route will be the usual parade route, starting at West Central Avenue, to Clark Street, down Clark Street to West Southern Avenue. This year’s judges stand is brought to you by Dolly’s South.
The committee has been working hard since January, planning for this year’s parade. The Committee has grown to 12 members.
“We all work together as a team, and it takes a lot of planning, and every opinion matters. Meetings are held monthly starting in January (weather permitting) on the second Thursday of the month at the new South Williamsport Borough building. What it means to the community is about getting together with family and neighbors to come together as a community for a day of celebration. The Mummers’ Parade has been a tradition for many in our area for decades. Each year the participants put in a lot of effort and work!” Lisa Angelo, Parade Coordinator, told Webb Weekly.
There is nothing more exciting than hearing neighbors plan cookouts and gatherings for friends and family along the parade route. Music from the local high school bands and cheers from the various cheerleader squads mingle with the occasional fire truck siren as the afternoon progresses, as well as a few unique floats, zombies, and a witch or two!
The Mummers’ Parade has been a mainstay of our area for decades. Each year, so many people put in great effort to make the parade memorable. This year is sure to be no different. So please, get out and line the streets in South Williamsport and enjoy a South Williamsport area staple. The bands, cheerleaders, dancers, and all who are participating appreciate all who come out to admire their hard work.
See you at the Parade!
