While COVID 19 may be putting the "bah-humbug" into many holiday happenings, the city of Milton has announced that two of the area’s local traditions will go on as planned.
Stephen Prestesater, assistant director of economic development for the city of Milton, said that both the Blackwater Pyrate Lighted Boat Parade and the annual Chamber of Commerce Christmas parade will take place.
This year’s title sponsor for the parade is Sport and Wheat CPA firm, and the theme is “A Peanuts Christmas.”
“Places that normally have parades like Pensacola and Navarre have all cancelled,” Prestesater said, “so we hope to draw folks from other communities who are looking for a dose of holiday spirit. We also anticipate having more floats than normal because of the cancellations, as groups who normally parade are looking for a venue.”
The Blackwater Pyrate Lighted Boat Parade will take place at Riverfront Park at 7 p.m. Dec. 4.
“We are excited about doing something fun, and I know people are looking forward to seeing it,” said Teresa McCombs, BWP Boat Parade Coordinator.
First, second, and third place awards are given for the decorated boats, as a well as a People’s Choice Award.
“Anyone can enter the parade,” McCombs said. “You just need a boat and you need to decorate it.”
But the evening will not end with the lighted boat parade.
Prestesater said the city of Milton will be putting on a fireworks display following the boat parade.
“It won’t be as grand as the annual Fourth of July fireworks, but we’re thrilled to have this to offer,” he said.
The fireworks will be launched from a barge anchored between the bridges.
On Dec. 5, the annual Christmas parade will roll its way down Stewart Street.
The parade will commence at 6 p.m. and make its way east from the Milton Community Center on James Street, then south on Stewart.
“All CDC guidelines for safe socializing will be in place, and parade observers should plan accordingly,” said Ed Spears, director of Economic Development.
The city will provide mask and hand sanitizer stations along the parade route.
“We’re looking forward to two fun nights of Milton holiday traditions, but do note that if the state imposes any restrictions, we too may have to cancel,” Spears said.
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosas Press Gazette: Upcoming weekend filled with Christmas cheer