Themed a “Griswold Christmas,” Shawnee’s annual Christmas parade event is set for 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13, on Main Street.
After experiencing a hiccup to secure a group to organize the community’s longtime event, the city worked out an agreement with nonprofit SEFF (Safe Events For Families) to produce and manage this year’s parade. SEFF had handled the event for years until recently.
After SEFF bowed out of the task, Community Renewal of Pottawatomie County (CRPC) took on the effort the past two years, but CRPC chose not to seek the contract this time around.
The city nailed down an agreement with SEFF in September.
Behind from the start but armed with a city-approved $50,000 in funding, SEFF got busy immediately.
SEFF President Dell Kerbs said things are more expensive now than in previous years.
“Logistical issues all the way from equipment needed to operate the parade – from golf carts to porta potties, working with the city Parks department, Police department, additional security protocols,” he explained, adding that SEFF planned to bring fireworks back — a large undertaking that also has a large price tag.
“For the first time in several years, the rooftop firework display will make a return,” a press release from the city states.
A post on the SEFF Shawnee Facebook page also hinted at a special surprise following the parade.
All floats are required to incorporate holiday lights and fully embrace the Griswold Christmas theme. There also will be a limit on the number of vehicles allowed for each car group entry “to ensure a safe and manageable lineup.”
Floats will start lining up downtown at 5 p.m., at the same time Main Street will shut down to traffic.
“All cars must be off Main Street or will be subject to towing,” SEFF said in the post.
Some businesses and restaurants could be open downtown during the event; check hours and availability.
“Main Street at the railroad tracks will not be accessible from 5 p.m. to midnight,” the SEFF post reads, adding that residents must not park on the east side of the railroad tracks because there will be no way to get to the parade – even by walking.
