JAMESTOWN, NY (WNY News Now) — Jamestown’s Christmas Parade takes place on Saturday night. Here’s what you need-to-know before you head downtown to take part, or, if you plan to on watch TV.
Where and when is the parade?
The parade kicks off at 6 p.m. at the Third Street bridge, near the intersection of Third Street and Porter Avenue in Jamestown. Those who are registered to take part in the procession, are asked to gather in the Farm Fresh Foods parking lot after 5 p.m.
What’s the theme for this year’s parade?
This year’s theme is the “Season of Joy,” a way to showcase how you express your own personal joy during the holiday season. Participants are asked to decorate their float in accordance with the theme. To learn more about the planning of the event, check out previous story here.
Who is this year’s grand marshal?
Matthew and Danielle Stone’s family are being honored for their charitable work as this year’s grand marshal. Their story was featured by WNY News Now’s Alyssa Wright on Friday. Check it out here.
Will there be fireworks this year?
Yes. Fireworks are tentatively scheduled for around 8 p.m. on Saturday following the parade, with pyrotechnic crews shooting them off from the Spring Street parking garage. However, the threat of high winds could have an impact on the show. Stay with WNY News Now for updates.
What should I bring to the parade?
First off, dress for the weather. A mix of rain transitioning to snow is possible, with temps in the mid to low 30s. The parade’s organizer, Patrick Smeraldo with Collaborative Children’s Solution, asks those who can bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate to the local Toys for Tots drive. A float to collect toys will be in the parade line-up.
What about parking? Will streets closed because of the parade?
Starting at 4:45 p.m. Jamestown Police will close Third Street from Hallock Street to Prendergast Avenue, with the intersection at Washington Street open, expect when the parade crosses. There is public parking at several downtown garages, with limited side street parking on a first come first served basis.
What is the best spot to watch the parade in perosn?
Around 6:15 p.m. the procession will briefly pause to give the grand marshals, dignitaries and organizers time to light the Jamestown Christmas Tree at City Hall’s Tracy Plaza, 200 E 3rd Street. The firework show also takes place nearby, so we recommend lining the route between the intersections of Third and Pine Streets and Third Street and Prendergast Avenue for the best view of all festivities. There is also a new “quiet zone” this year for those sensitive to noise, between Lafayette and Washington Streets.
Speaking of the tree, where did that come from?
Each year, the Jamestown Park’s Dept. harvests a local tree for Christmas. Back in November, a 40-foot-tall Norway Spruce was donated by New Hope Community Church located at 40 City View Avenue in Jamestown. The Spruce was decked out with over 3,000 energy saving LED lights ahead of the ceremonial lighting around 6:15 p.m. at City Hall’s Tracy Plaza.
Can I watch it online, or, on TV?
Those who cannot watch the parade in person, or who want to watch the parade after the fact, can do so online and on Roku TV. WNY News Now will host a special broadcast starting at 6 o’clock on Channel 716 on Roku and WNY News Now’s social media, YouTube and website.
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