"You better watch out. You better not cry. You better not pout; I'm telling you why"— Santa Claus is coming to Ball Ground! Though still a few weeks away, the City of Ball Ground is getting ready for the 8th Annual March of the Toys Parade for Toys for Tots to be held at 7:00pm on December 2, in downtown Ball Ground. This parade is one of the largest in north Georgia.
The Grand Marshal for this year's parade is Lulu Roman from the television series Hee Haw. Some of you may remember her as a comedian and singer on the country comedy music show, which debuted in 1969 and ran through 1971. Roman will be available prior to the parade to meet and greet fans. Fans will also have the opportunity to purchase her book, This Is My Story; This Is My Song.
Santa Tim Cavender and his elves have been busy working to make sure this year's parade is bigger and better than ever. Many participants have appeared in the parade since its beginning. Some come from as far away as Knoxville, Tennessee. "Christmas Pete," from Mauldin's Body Shop, is always a hit with the crowd. The lights and sounds of this truck will put even the Grinch in the Christmas spirit!
Other parade favorites that return each year are the Star Wars characters, Atlanta Area Cosplayers, Snow White, and Big Bird. And don't be surprised to see many of your favorite superheroes such as Batman, Catwoman, Superman, and Spiderman in the parade. Another favorite is the Creekview HS marching band, under the direction of Stephen McCarthy. There will also be floats, antique cars, and trucks galore!
We can't thank our local businesses enough for their participation in the parade. Many of them begin working on their floats early in the year, so they can be ready for Santa's big arrival.
Parade attendees are asked to bring a new unwrapped toy to deposit in one of the many collection boxes along the parade route or in City Park, located on Old Dawsonville Road. Santa Tim wants every child to wake up on Christmas morning with a special gift under the tree. Please help the City of Ball Ground make that happen.
Plan to arrive early! In past years, some individuals have gotten caught in traffic and missed the parade. People start gathering around midafternoon, lining Gilmer Ferry Road with their chairs to ensure a front row seat. City streets begin closing at 6:30pm.
Don't worry about eating before you come. Downtown Ball Ground restaurants will serve you some of the best food around. Downtown shops will also be open for Christmas shopping.
Ball Ground is the place to be on December 2. Please visit MarchOfTheToysParade.com or the March of the Toys Parade for Toys for Tots Facebook page for more information.
As we begin this holiday season, let us give thanks for the many blessings bestowed upon us and not forget the reason for the season.