Vestavia Hills Holiday Parade

The annual Vestavia Hills Holiday Parade and Christmas in the Park festival are cherished holiday traditions in the community. This year’s parade will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 8 at Liberty Park Middle School.

“It’s going to be a much longer parade route this year,” said Paige Hockman, parade organizer. “It will wind down Liberty Parkway and then into the lower entrance of the Alston Meadows. The whole parade should last about 45 minutes to an hour.”

Lineup for parade participants will begin at 1 p.m., and Hockman said viewers can park in the surrounding neighborhoods. Viewing will be along Liberty Parkway. The Vestavia Hills High School Marching Band and the Rockettes will lead the parade, and Mayor Alberto Zaragoza will be riding at the front of the procession. Vestavia Belles and Dogwood Beauty Pageant winners are also returning participants. Hockman said she welcomes all participants, particularly those with antique cars to model. Awards for the classic cars include Mayor’s Choice and Best in Show.

Following the festivities, parade guests are invited to enjoy Christmas at the Park in Alston Meadows, where children can visit Santa and various restaurants will offer free samples. Additionally, the Vestavia Rockettes and other dance ensembles will perform, and there will be a Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

“I am shocked at how incredible it’s gotten. Last year we had 87 entrants,” Hockman said. “We want to send the message that we are all Vestavia Hills. We are one community.”

For more information on the parade or if you would like to be a volunteer along the parade route, email Paige Hockman at paigehockman@aol.com.