Paris, Tenn.–As you are aware, due to weather, the Downtown Paris Association made the decision last week to reschedule the Holly Jolly Christmas parade. Because of various conflicts the decision was made to have the parade on Friday this week at 6p.m . It wasn’t the perfect day and time but the best case scenario at the time. Representatives with the Downtown Paris Association, the City of Paris and the Paris Police Department met and determined that the following would be the best and safest way to approach the day and time change.
One of the obstacles faced by moving the day/ time is that Friday is a workday for many in the downtown area. Because of that, parking in the Blythe Street/Poplar Street area will be used until at least 5 p.m. and this is the time that many will be arriving prior to the parade.
Interim DPA Director Jennifer Morris said in a press release issued Wednesday evening, “Our downtown cannot spare those parking areas, hence we would not be able to block those spaces all day on Friday.
“Now that you have the background and issues we are facing with a weekday, we feel that we have a solution. Though we have previously provided a map of the parade route, we will be altering the route by assembling and beginning the parade in another area.
“This year we will be assembling in the parking areas of the First Baptist Church and City Parking lot at the corner of Brewer Street and Ruff Streets. As entries arrive they be directed as to where they should park to stage their entry for the parade.
“You will find attached an amended parade route map. In summary, the parade will assemble in a different location and proceed in the same direction and cover the exact same route as in the past three years.
“If you have questions or are unclear about this, please call me at 731-644-4539 and I will attempt to clear up any confusion.
“We know this has changed the landscape of the parade, however, we feel that this will provide for a good flow and perhaps work even better than the way it has operated for many years.”
Here are some things to remember:
- Parade will form in the First Baptist Church and City parking areas at Brewer and Ruff Streets.
- You will be directed to your staging area by a volunteer (in fluorescent vests with a two-way radio)
- Please arrive no later than 5:00 p.m., however, if you choose to arrive earlier there will be someone to direct you.
- For any specific rules please reference the original rules and regulations provided with the application.
- Call 731-644-4539 if you have questions.
Thanks to everyone for their patience and understanding. We are looking forward to a fun and festive parade in our beautiful downtown this Friday evening!