The holiday spirit is set to shine brightly in Downtown Woodstock on December 8, with the 28th annual Christmas Jubilee and Parade of Lights scheduled to illuminate the evening from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. This year's festive procession will be led by Grand Marshal Mickey Swims, the celebrated owner of the historic Dixie Speedway, a decision that aligns with the speedway's launch of their latest attraction, the drive-through holiday experience named Magic of Lights. City of Woodstock officials have confirmed the event details, which promise to bring community cheer and a range of entertainment.
Recognized as a mainstay in local and motorsports communities, Swims has helped to maintain Dixie Speedway as a family operation since its establishment in 1969. Under his guidance, the venue has not only sustained the fervorous love for racing but has also recently branched out to become a home for the festive Magic of Lights attraction open to the public nightly until January 4, 2025. Swims will bring his community ethos to the forefront, having once claimed, "The greatest award is being able to work together with family in a community that I love." This sentiment seems to perfectly capture the essence of the upcoming jubilee, according to the news release from the City of Woodstock.
The parade is slated to feature 125 entries, including the novel addition of the Oscar Meyer Weinermobile, which is set to grace the parade for the first time this year. The course is planned to start at Woodstock Elementary School on Rope Mill Road, heading south down Main Street and culminating near Sam’s Club at Highway 92. Reminder for attendees: Local roads will shut down at 5:15 p.m., making way for the parade's commencement at 5:30 p.m.
Post-parade festivities are scheduled as well, with Mayor Michael Caldwell and Santa Claus set to host the official lighting of the city’s Christmas tree at the gazebo in the Park at City Center. Together, they will also present awards for the best parade floats before attendees can line up to share their Christmas wishes with Santa. Organizers encourage bringing letters for Santa, assuring a personalized response for those who include their address. With holiday music and festive foods set to create a backdrop, the event will also feature a children's craft area, sugar plum cupcake decorating stations, and a range of carnival games sure to entertain visitors of all ages, as per the City of Woodstock's announcement.
Local businesses and organizations, including CityVet, Harry Norman, and Bug Busters, sponsor the 2024 Christmas Jubilee and Parade of Lights. The event benefits from the combined efforts of various city departments, including Woodstock Parks and Recreation, Public Works, the Police Department, and the Fire Department, to ensure a seamless and joyous holiday celebration.
