Concord, North Carolina rings in the festive season with two time-honored events that draw in the community and visitors alike. On November 21, downtown Concord will host the 28th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, presented by Eli Lilly, as well as the 97th Concord Christmas Parade the following day, according to a release by the City of Concord.
The Tree Lighting Ceremony, scheduled from 6 to 8:30 p.m., is set to entertain families with a variety of attractions, including musical performances and a kids' zone. The event promises a screening of "Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch," alongside a spread of food trucks that cater to every palate. Eli Lilly, the event's sponsor, looks to enhance the holiday spirit with a fireworks display to conclude the ceremony. Furthermore, kids and their families can capture the moment with Santa and Mrs. Claus in Santa Land, an experience sponsored by Windstream and Uwharrie Bank.
Moving onto the parade, which takes place on November 22 at 2:30 p.m., the City of Concord invites one and all to witness the procession. Starting at the intersection of Church Street N and Lake Concord Road, the parade will follow its traditional over two-mile route, culminating at the intersection of Union Street and Corban Avenue. In a fresh twist, judges will station themselves on Union Street across from the historic 1876 courthouse to evaluate participants.
Community groups such as bands, schools, churches, and civic organizations, that take part are in the running for first, second, and third place awards across four different categories. A panel of judges will select the winners, and with over 20,000 attendees expected, the competition and Thanksgiving cheer stand to be as vibrant as ever.
