Hatboro Holiday Parade Activities Set

The Hatboro Holiday Parade will march into town on Sunday with great fanfare.

For spectators, that means 100 units participating - or approximately 3,000 participants walking and riding into town - according to parade organizer Meredith Baker. 

The parade route has been reversed from recent years and will begin at York Road and Summit Avenue and continue southbound to Newington Drive.

Besides the challenge of a new route, the parade had faced economic challenges as well. Earlier this month, Baker told Patch that the Greater Hatboro Chamber of Commerce was , and, just two weeks ago, had been $10,000 short of that goal. 

On Tuesday, Chamber President Joe Tryon, who also serves as president and CEO of Hatboro Federal Savings, told Patch that the money is in hand. 

"Once again the Hatboro community has come through with the funding necessary to have our annual holiday parade this Sunday," Tryon said. 

The crowds of thousands will see three mummers bands (Aqua String Band, Old Trilby String Band and Polish American String Band); as well as high school marching bands, floats, scout groups, civic organizations, fire trucks, police cars and community dignitaries. 

Paul "BigBear," a long-time parade participant and Abington-based entertainer, is this year's grand marshal. His "The Party Continues" float will join the Hawaiian Holiday-themed procession.

But, before the two-hour holiday spectacle gets underway at 2 p.m. on Sunday, those in attendance can enjoy pre-parade events featuring two canine groups, along with Dixie Derbys and Timoney Irish Dancers, Baker said.

As is the parade's tradition, Santa and Mrs. Claus will drive into town in an elaborately decorated wagon pulled by two belgian horses. Of course, since Santa will be there, kids will want to come with letters and Christmas wish lists in tow.

"Our friends at UPS will be collecting letters for Santa Claus," Baker said.