LAWRENCE, Kan. (November 15, 2024) – The Lawrence Old-Fashioned Christmas Parade, a cherished community tradition for 31 years, returns to Massachusetts Street on December 7, 2024, at 11 a.m., offering a blend of beloved favorites and exciting new entries.
“The parade continues to get better every year,” says Marty Kennedy, president of Lawrence Old-Fashioned Christmas Parade, Inc. “We’re grateful for the entries that return annually—some have only missed one or two parades over the years. We’re equally thrilled to welcome new participants, adding even more variety and excitement.”
This year’s parade features authentic, horse-drawn carriages, making it a festive way to kick off the holiday season. New participants include Jerry Penwell from Cassoday, Kan., with a striking red hitch wagon pulled by two sorrel Belgian mares, Baby and Kitty; Chuck and Gail Maynard from Marshfield, Mo., with their Percheron Quarter cross team, Molly and Dolly, pulling a Surry carriage; and Liz VanWey from Red Cloud, Neb., showcasing Lollipop, a flashy Quarter pony leading a double-bench covered buggy. Also debuting this year is the Lazy Bucks Ranch Rodeo Team from Hayesville, Kan., representing the spirit of rodeo tradition.
As one of the few all-horse parades in the country, the Lawrence Old-Fashioned Christmas Parade celebrates the historical significance of horses and the winter holidays. This unique event features historically accurate replicas of late 1800s and early 1900s horse-drawn vehicles, with entries and riders adorned in holiday or period attire.
The parade is made possible by the support of local individuals, businesses, and dedicated volunteers. Presented by the City of Lawrence and Explore Lawrence, the 2024 event is also generously sponsored by The Chamber, Eldridge Hotel, Bishop Business Services, Kennedy Glass, and Standard Beverage, with media sponsorship from Great Plains Media and Lawrence Business Magazine. Individual and business sponsors known as Friends of the Parade contribute to making this annual event a reality. Sponsors are invited to a dinner and dance with entries on Friday night. The public is invited to visit the Douglas County Fairgrounds on Friday evening, where many of the horses are stalled overnight.
The Lawrence Old-Fashioned Christmas Parade has become a beloved tradition for many families, marking the start of the holiday season. Downtown Lawrence offers a variety of pre- and post-parade activities, from breakfast or brunch at local restaurants to special holiday events. Before the parade, families can enjoy the Watkins Museum’s Tails & Trails Scavenger Hunt or have breakfast with Santa at Macelli’s. Many businesses offer hot drinks and exclusive promotions on parade day.
After the parade, visitors can explore Downtown Lawrence’s shopping and dining options as traffic disperses. The Lawrence Festival of Trees opens for viewing at noon, and Santa will be available for photos at Weavers. Shoppers can also participate in the Winter Wonder Pass, a free program from Explore Lawrence, to earn points and win prizes.
For more information about the parade, visit its website.
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FOR INTERVIEWS
Please contact Julie DeYoung at 785-393-7498 (cell)
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