One Family Productions announced the 49th annual Patrick County Christmas Parade will be held in Stuart on December 4, beginning at 2 p.m.
To prioritize public health and safety, One Family Productions will be paying close attention to local, state, and regional health mandates, and adhere to all recommendations for maximum safety of organizers, participants, and spectators.
Line up for the parade will begin at 12:30 p.m. on Wood Brothers Drive in Stuart, Virginia. Participants are asked to be lined up by 1:15 p.m.
All traffic flow will be clearly marked on parade day, and signage must be followed.
One Family Productions has chosen to feature two Grand Marshals at this year’s parade: Dr. Lock Boyce’s memory will be honored as the 2020 Grand Marshal, and Terry Tilley will serve as Grand Marshal 2021.
Boyce was a long-time resident of Patrick County, a community activist, member of the Patrick County Board of Supervisors, philanthropist, and supporter of many local events, both personally and through his veterinary practice. He passed away unexpectedly in August 2020.
Tilley served as the Town of Stuart’s manager for more than 40 years, — the longest of any town manager in Virginia. During his tenure, Tilley maintained many civic roles, including as a member of Stuart Volunteer Fire Department, with roles from firefighter to Assistant Chief for more than 35 years, and serving on the Patrick County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Having a “can do” attitude and a love for Patrick County and Stuart, Tilley exemplified what it means to have a community centered mind. He often joked that “every day is a parade in Stuart, VA,” and parade organizers are inviting parade participants to celebrate that festive spirit.
All participants, including businesses, educational and non-profit organizations, churches, pageant title holders, and others should submit entry forms by November 29 to secure a place in the lineup. Entries are $20, with a $5 fee for late entries.
Horse and riders may register for $5 per rider/horse, and fire and rescue apparatus’ fees are waived. Registration received (via mail or digital) after November 29 will be $25.
**Due to liability risks and safety concerns, no ATVs/4 wheelers will be allowed.
Mail-in registration forms are available for pick up at WHEO Radio and the Patrick County Chamber of Commerce. Online registration is available at https://bit.ly/pcchristmasparade2021, or email the parade committee at pcchristmasparade@gmail.com.