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Comox Valley Christmas Parade to return after one-year absence

After approval from health authorities, the Downtown Courtenay Business Improvement Association has begun planning for the 2021 Comox Valley Christmas Parade.
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After approval from health authorities, the Downtown Courtenay Business Improvement Association has begun planning for the 2021 Comox Valley Christmas Parade.

“ Normally we start planning for the Christmas Parade in August but with COVID we weren’t sure it would happen again this year,” said DCBIA executive director, Tracey Clarke. “The health authorities let us know that as long as the Public Health Order doesn’t change, it can go ahead.”

The 2021 Comox Valley Christmas Parade will take place Sunday, Dec. 5, at 2 p.m

Organizers are putting the call out now for entries.

“This year’s theme is “Silver Bells,” and we encourage a modern or classic take on this nostalgic theme,” said Clarke, in a press release. “Participants can design a moving entry such as a traditional parade float, classic cars or a decorated ‘Big Truck.’ We also encourage energetic community groups from dance schools, theatre companies, multicultural societies, martial arts schools, and similar, to participate on foot.”

The last parade was 2019. Due to the pandemic, the 2020 parade was cancelled.

After a year off, organizers are hopeful for a big response this year.

“Even if you’ve never entered the Christmas parade before, we encourage 2021 to be the year you start,” said Clarke. “There is a special prize just for new entries each year.”

There are $500 prizes to be won in many categories, including:

• Best Overall Entry, sponsored by Mackenzie Gartside and Associates;

• Best Non-Profit Entry, sponsored by Brian Mclean Chevrolet Buick GMC;

• Most Entertaining Entry, sponsored by the DCBIA; 

• Best Children/Youth Entry, sponsored by the DCBIA;

•The Three Mayors Choice, sponsored by the DCBIA;

• Best New Entry, sponsored by sponsored by the DCBIA.

As well, the Best Commercial Entry will receive $500 in advertising with the Comox Valley Record.

Contact info@downtowncourtenay.com for a parade application. Entry is $10 for non-profit groups and $25 for commercial entities.

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