APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – The countdown to Christmas is on, and Appleton is getting an early jump on the holiday spirit with the return of a beloved tradition.
The 53rd annual Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade took place Tuesday night. It’s marketed as the Midwest’s largest nighttime Christmas parade.
All along the parade route, you could feel the excitement in the air. This year’s event dazzled with an estimated 80,000 people — three or four deep in some spots — along College Avenue to watch the floats and marching bands pass by.
The parade featured nearly 80 floats, as well as 20 marching bands from high schools in Northeast Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Such an impressive turnout begs the question: What makes the Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade a must-see event each holiday season?
“We’ve been coming to the parade 32 years, every year. Never miss it,” said Appleton resident Denise Cucci.
To ensure they had a good spot, Cucci says she and her family camped out starting at 3 o’clock in the afternoon.
“It’s just a family and friend event. You come down and have food and share spots and just meet so many wonderful people. Bands from all over Wisconsin come, so it’s just a great start to the holiday,” Cucci said.
Everyone we spoke to had a favorite float they were waiting to see.
Quinn Greuel of Bonduel said, “I’m just looking forward to see the hot air balloon, because it makes me warm.”
Hayden Oligney from Hortonville added, “My sister’s going to be in one. She’s with the Greenville Y teaching little kids to dance, so that’s going to be my favorite one.”
And those taking part in this unofficial kickoff to Christmas were equally as excited.
“It really makes you happy seeing all the people who show up just to see Christmas joy and cheer you on. It’s really good and exciting. It gets your adrenaline up,” said Isabella Schmidt with the float for NEW Fusion Dance and Performing Arts.
It goes almost goes without saying, the Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade is a holiday tradition for thousands in Northeast Wisconsin and beyond.
“Great idea to have it right now. We always take off work tomorrow, and then we get ready for the big turkey day. It’s awesome,” Cucci said.
And with Santa making his appearance on the final float — the parade is a sure sign Christmas is on its way.
Comments