GREENVILLE – It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The 2015 Hometown Holiday Horse Parade returns on Saturday, Nov. 21 at 7 p.m. in downtown Greenville! This annual tradition in Darke County has kicked off the holiday season for the downtown district the past 12 years!
The 2015 Grand Marshal will be State Representative Jim Buchy. When selecting the Grand Marshal, Representative Buchy was a natural choice.
“Representative Buchy has served on and off in public office for our community since 1980, in that time he has made countless contributions to our community and equestrian agriculture throughout the state,” said Amber Garrett, Executive Director for Main Street Greenville.
The lighted event boosts 80 plus entries and brings an estimated 8,000 plus spectators into the downtown area. The parade will travel down South Broadway, travel around the circle, and return back up South Broadway.
The committee would like to remind spectators to stay off of the street during the parade and do not try to cross S. Broadway once the parade has begun. In addition, please do not dangle your legs over the edge of the curb.
“We want a safe environment for everyone. For those who are watching the parade and for those who bring their horses to participate,” said Chief Dennis Butts, Chief of Police for the City of Greenville.
Main Street Greenville, the non-profit organization that has been coordinating the event since 2004, and the Hometown Holiday Horse Parade Committee utilizes many volunteers within the community to make the event happen, as well as provide multiple entertainment options leading up to the parade.
“This event helps to highlight our beautiful downtown to those who live here and those who visit. It is a great way to start your family’s holiday celebrations,” said Diana Stebbins, 2015 Parade Chairperson.
Below you will find the current list of entertainment/events for the day, please follow Main Street Greenville’s Facebook Page to receive updates as they occur.
1-6 p.m. – Christmas at the historic St. Clair Manor, 224 E. Third St.:Horse and carriage rides, raffle prizes, Flashbox photo booth, free cider and cookies, reflexology, chair massage and facials, and of course many unique gifts offered by local businesses!
4-6:30 p.m. -Romer’s Catering Delightful Dinner Buffet, 118 E. Main St.: Reservations required, includes FREE premier parking!
4-7 p.m. – Shop & Dine downtown before the parade: Over 30 independent shops and dining establishments!
5-7 p.m. – FREE Pony Rides, 115 W. 5th St.: Located on the side lawn of First Congregational Christian Church.
5-5:30 p.m. – Storytime at Readmore’s Hallmark, 534 S. Broadway: Storytime with the Grinch!
5:45-6:45 p.m.- Joelle York, At the fountain on the circle (intersection of Broadway and Main St.): Local singer performs your favorite holiday hits!
6 p.m. – Storytime at Bread of Life, 107 W. Main St.: Storytime featuring The Legend of the Christmas Tree.
6-8 p.m. – HER Realtors Open House, 537 S. Broadway, Suite 202 (upstairs of the Palace Building): Stop by for refreshments and appetizers before the parade!
6:15-6:45 p.m. – Calliope Performance from Firehouse Pipes of Union City, Annie Oakley Park (intersection of Martin, Washington, and S. Broadway): Upbeat high energy performance!
7 p.m.- 12th Annual Hometown Holiday Horse Parade!, S. Broadway: Over 80 lighted horse drawn carriages, hitches, and riders illuminate downtown Greenville for a grand holiday tradition!
Main Street Greenville would like to thank the families who bring their horses to this parade event.
“It is a lot of work for them. They arrive at the staging area as early as 3 p.m. to prepare for the event. The parade simply would not be possible without their commitment. They do an amazing job,” said Amber Garrett, Executive Director for Main Street Greenville.
Main Street Greenville also thanks the local businesses who help to sponsor this annual event, a full list of sponsors can be found on their website. This year’s Platinum Parade Sponsors are Wayne Healthcare, Greenville Federal, and OneMain Financial.
“We are thankful for our sponsors’ support. Many are continued sponsors who help us create this event for our community each year,” said Dave Ernst, Board President for Main Street Greenville.