The Greer Christmas Parade will honor frontline healthcare workers with a virtual Grand Marshal vehicle leading the parade on Sunday, Dec. 6 at 2:30 p.m.
The festivities are held in conjunction with a weekend of activities organized by the City of Greer Christmas Tree Lighting on Friday, Dec. 4 and Greer Station Association.
A Sensory Safe Zone, at Poinsett Street and Memorial Drive, will allow those who are sensitive to loud noises and vibrations to enjoy the parade.
"We felt it was important this year for us to recognize the heroes of the pandemic, our healthcare workers," stated Greer Relief Executive Director, Caroline Robertson. "They are putting the health of others above all else, including their own health. They are providing care and compassion in these unprecedented times. This is our thank you for being a light in the face of uncertainty."
The community is invited to nominate a frontline "Hometown Hero". Send their name, how they are helping battle COVID on the frontlines, and a photo to [email protected] and they will be included in the final video of the parade as part of the grand marshal recognition.
The events have been approved under an exception process by the S.C. Department of Commerce. Participants will not hand out any items (including candy) to guests this year. Guests are requested to use the entire length of the parade route for seating to encourage distancing and allow ample space between those sitting on curbs and those on sidewalks behind them.
Greer Relief has several Safety Stations throughout the parade route with masks, hand sanitizer, and social distancing wristbands for distribution to guests. The parade will be live on the Greer Relief & Resources Agency, Inc. Facebook page or a recording on YouTube.
“Christmas Melodies,” is the theme of the parade and will feature almost 80 parade units. Santa Claus is the featured guest of the parade.
Registration for the parade is available and the parade lineup will be available on https://greerrelief.org/featured-events/ Friday, Dec. 4 by noon.
The South Carolina Department of Commerce has given Greer special exception for this event.