The 65th Annual Christmas Parade, a staple of Clarksville's festive season, is set to illuminate downtown tomorrow, starting at 5 p.m. For 65 years, residents have come together to witness a spectacle of lights and community celebration, and this year's theme, "Christmas Around the World," promises to continue the tradition. The parade route kicks off at the corner of College Street and Eighth Street, right by Austin Peay State University, making its way to University Avenue before circling back around Public Square and Franklin Street.

Those planning to join in the festivities should be aware that parking meters on Public Square and along Franklin Street will be covered and off-limits starting today at 4 p.m. and tomorrow at 8 a.m., respectively. To accommodate everyone, the new downtown parking garage will be available with complimentary parking over the weekend, as mentioned in a city announcement. This garage also provides a pedestrian walkway for easier access to the parade festivities.

The city has laid out road closures to make the parade a safe event. Roads like College Street at Eighth and Farris Drive at Eighth will be closed to standard traffic starting at 8 a.m. tomorrow, and they won't reopen until approximately 7 p.m. when the parade concludes. Moreover, parade-only traffic will get the green light on streets such as Drane Street and Marion Street from 12:30 p.m. onwards.

Clarksville Police Department will be rerouting vehicles to help ease the traffic flow, but if you're planning to drive around downtown Clarksville, be prepared to potentially get slowed down. A full list of all the affected roads and intersections can be found in the detailed notice provided by the City of Clarksville's announcement. Local businesses, schools, and organizations are expected to feature in the parade, ready to showcase their Christmas spirit and creativity through elaborately decorated floats and vehicles.

The parade not only weaves through the streets of Clarksville but also strings together a community in holiday merriment. For newcomers and longtime residents alike, this event stands as a testament to the unity and joy that the holiday season can bring. The city encourages everyone to come down and partake in an evening of festive cheer, bright lights, and the collective spirit of Christmas.