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A limited edition print by well-known artist David Larson captures the iconic image of Philadelphia Ave. in the hours before the parade. The lithograph depicts spaces along the curb saved for families to watch the parade.
Research agrees that the first Halloween parades in America had a common goal of “diverting youngsters from Halloween pranks.” However, there is uncertainty about where the first Halloween parade was held. Some say it was in Minnesota; others say it was Kansas. Still others say the first Halloween parade was held in nearby Allentown in 1905.
We can be certain of one thing: the Boyertown parade is about to turn 69 years old! Planned and sponsored by the Boyertown Halloween Parade Associaton, work for the event began behind the scenes back in March. Some of the first tasks were securing the proper permits and writing letters inviting marching bands.
The parade will step-off tonight, Saturday, Oct. 22 at 7:00 p.m. with a rain date of Sunday, the 23rd, at 2:00 p.m. The route will trace a version of a rectangle, beginning at Middle School West and wrapping up on 2nd Street. Authorized volunteers will be present along the route to collect contributions to help finance future parades.
As always, the parade will feature a variety of floats and marching bands, as well as groups and individuals dressed in creative costumes. Prizes will be awarded for the “bests” in designated categories. Food vendors will also be along the route to keep everyone warm and happy, and kids of all ages are certain to scramble for the candy that will be tossed to spectators as parade participants march by.
Another predictable sight will be the colorful and varied chairs, blankets, and other creative items that will line the street curbs in anticipation of the parade in order to reserve sitting or standing room for their owners. Police honor this long time tradition of “staking out space,” but caution residents that items must not be placed too far in advance.
The parade promises to provide a special night that will indeed “divert youngsters from … pranks.”
Early afternoon; residents are saving their spaces along the parade route as anticipation builds for this fun-filled tradition.More News from Boyertown
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