The Americus Christmas Parade was held on December 7th. People gathered up and down the street in anticipation. Some stood wrapped in blankets, others sat in foldable chairs. A few sat on the steps of the municipal building, and others gathered in the backs of pickup trucks. A helicopter made several passes over downtown as the crowd waited expectantly for the parade to appear.
A variety of vehicles participated, from trucks pulling deck-out trailers to a giant tractor. The Sumter Cyclists appeared with illuminated rims, one rider proudly showing off wheelies. The tower and balconies of The Windsor were lit, appearing like a structure from the Renaissance amidst the glow. Spectators lined the balconies, peering down at the spectacle below.
The motorcyclists known as the Punishers drove past, lights flashing brightly like determined fireflies amidst the streetlamps and Christmas lights. Multiple dancing troops marched down the street, and the Grinch made several appearances, popping up on multiple floats, unable to steal the joy of the crowd as friends laughed and cheered at the passing parade and Santa waved to the crowd.
Main Street Director Qaijuan Willis read off the names of the entries as they went past. A panel of four judges appraised the floats including vice chair of the Sumter County Chamber Board Andrew Cook, assistant director of Greek life and Leadership at GSW Jeremy Wicker, community member Dominique Dowdell, and Main Street Board member Dawn Daniels-McNear.
First place float went to Jackies Lil Tooty Tots, second place went to Furlow Charter School’s float, which was constructed by the Furlow National Arts Honor Society, and third place went to Lowes. Sumter County High School Marching Band won best choreographed marching unit, J&R Event Rentals won Best Community Spirit, and Truman’s Air Conditioning & Heating won Best Overall Christmas Themes.
Afterwards, several onlookers gave their reactions. Two young spectators watched the parade from the back of a pick-up truck parked along East Lamar Street. Karter Jane Sherrit shared a favorite moment.
“When the unicorn come!”
Asa Sherrit also gave an opinion.
“I liked the firefighter with Marshal.”
Asa Sherrit also mentioned liking the Grinch.
“He was cool.”
Ronneisha Tullis shared her enthusiasm for watching the parade.
“I’ve been going to the Christmas Parade, honestly since I was a small little girl, and this takes me back to when I was small, all the floats, all the participation, all the kids. It was awesome.”
She concluded by stating she couldn’t wait until next year.