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The City of Troy’s annual Christmas Parade will take place in Downtown Troy on Monday, Dec. 2, and it’s geared up to be one of the biggest in the city’s history.

The parade has more than 150 entries in this year’s parade, including local marching bands. The parade starts at 7 p.m. on Dec. 2 but prior to that, festivities will include live entertainment from local singer Henry Everett and his band. Park Memorial Church will also provide free hot chocolate to parade-goers to help brave the anticipated chilly weather.

When the parade begins it will feature a wide variety of entries that includes decorated floats, marching bands and community groups.

Following the parade, the fun doesn’t stop, however. Troy’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on the Square and will feature six students from local schools helping Troy Mayor Jason Reeves and the Troy City Council light the tree. Those special helpers include Troy Elementary’s Jayden Fuller and Jasper Spann, Pike Liberal Arts School’s William Drinkard of Lofton Johnson, Covenant Christian’s Maggie Reagan and New Life Christian Academy’s Destiny Mency.

Church of the Highlands Troy Campus Pastor Coleman Ulmer will remind the community of the true meaning of Christmas with a special Christmas Message.

Voltage Dance Group will also perform festive dances, while The House of Grace Church will lead the crowd in signing Christmas Carols.

“Christmas is a time of reflection, joy and togetherness, and as a Troy resident, the Christmas Parade has always been one of my favorite ways to celebrate,” City of Troy Public Relations and Tourism Administrative Assistant Willie Williams Jr. said. “There’s something truly special about seeing the community come together to mark the start of the season with so much excitement, energy, and festive spirit. I always look forward to the laughter, the cheers, and the smiles that light up the night during the parade.”

The City of Troy also encourages attendees to explore local downtown businesses before and after the parade.