PARA Cancels 2020 West Alabama Christmas Parade

TUSCALOOSA, AL. — The Tuscaloosa County Park & Recreation Authority (PARA) on Friday announced that the 45th annual West Alabama Christmas Parade has been rescheduled for 2021, marking the first time in nearly half a century that the parade will not take place as scheduled.

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In the hopes of still bringing some holiday spirit to Tuscaloosa, PARA has planned two “Santa Sighting” events where the public can come pose for photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Parade chairperson Becky Booker said that in March, when COVID-19 guidelines were first enacted, PARA knew it might not be able to host a typical parade with more than 15,000 people in attendance

“We researched, studied different methods, and talked with peers across the nation and then planned a 'reverse' parade," she said. “We very much appreciate our community support and know that much time, hard work and holiday spirit goes into each float, decorated vehicle, marching group and band. However, low participation numbers prevented us from presenting a meaningful parade."

PARA also reminded the public of Holly Jolly in the Park, the second drive-up movie in the park, with details to be announced on Nov. 23 at 2:30 p.m. during a press conference in Jaycee Park hosted by Tuscaloosa City Councilman Kip Tyner and PARA.

Here is additional information provided by PARA about the two "Santa Sighting" events:

Selfies with Santa and Mrs. Claus
Date: Dec. 4
Time: 6:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m.
Location: Government Plaza, located at 2106 6th Street
Description: Selfies with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Attendees must provide a camera as no photographer is provided.

Theatre Tuscaloosa’s presentation of the original play, “Lights Out for Christmas in Cootah County: A Country (COVID) Christmas Carol”
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Location: Government Plaza, located at 2106 6th Street
Cost: The event is free and open to the public.

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