The Boulevard kicked off the holiday season with our Signature Event, the Hometown Holiday Parade. Grand Park was full of families snapping photos with the Grand Christmas Tree, and our Social Snap Activations in the park. Sidewalks were busy, shopperscame early, enjoyed dining at our restaurants, and secured the best sidewalk spot for viewing the parade. Parade guests were gifted candy can light up sticks, from Grand Boulevard & Visit South Walton and candy bags provided by Lululemon.
Parade participants included, 27 Grand Boulevard merchants, 6 area schools, including the SWHS Marching Band, a dozen local organizations, 16 local non-profit organizations, South Walton Sherrif’s Office, South Walton Fire Department, and countless volunteers.
The parade had an extra layer to the mission of community spirit, for the first time, The SWSO and Grand Boulevard partnered together for outreach efforts of Santa Patrol, Toy Drive. SWSO, Resource Officers, identify school aged children of Walton County, who may be underserved, on hard times, or homeless. Together, collecting toys and clothing donations to ensure each child has a Christmas Gift this year. Not only was this a first for Grand Boulevard, but this was also a first for the Sheriff’s Office. All previous years, this has been a solo mission. We are grateful they trusted Grand Boulevard to help spread the word and make an impact on this incredibly giving community.
Following the parade, guests had the opportunity to have photos with Santa in Grand Park and enjoy Carriage Rides along the Boulevard. The music and excitement were grand and without a doubt, memorable for everyone who joined us! I have attached a few photos for you and below is a recap of the participants from this year.
Special Guests of Honor,
- Russell Hughes, Superintendent of Walton County Schools as our returning Grand Marshal
- Tom Glavin was our guest of honor, MLB Hall of Fame Pitcher, Braves
- Ascension Sacred Heart Team and CEO, Trey Abshier.
The Hometown Holiday parade truly is a centerpiece to our holiday events at Grand Boulevard.
Our Parade Photographer, Matt Christopher, Max Impact Photos captured magical moments. View the link [HERE] and share your magical moments on social!
Tag us in your parade photos! @grandboulevard #grandblvd