With only the dress rehearsal to go before the big day, Santa Claus is ready to arrive in town on Saturday 30th November to join the Villawood Gawler Christmas Parade.
This year’s parade will be bigger, better and more diverse as more than 40 entries will march through the main street of Gawler – Murray Street.
Parade co-ordinator, Mr Tony Piccolo MP said with several new entries in 2024, the stage is set for a more interesting and colourful parade.
“This year we will have two schools, a local footy club, the local BMX club and a number of other community organisations and small businesses, so there will something of interest for the whole family,” said Mr Piccolo.
“There will be tractors, trucks and other vehicles - reflecting our manufacturing and rural history.
“The dance groups will be both glamourous and spectacular, showcasing the many activities available to members of the community to get involved.
“And as always, the service clubs have come on board, some for the second time, to support the event with both volunteers, catering and being part of the parade.
“This year, we have three churches that will present the traditional Christmas message to parade spectators.
“And for the children who like the sound of sirens, and flashing lights all our local emergency services will be leading the parade.
“The event is true reflection of the community spirit and life in our wonderful town and surrounding districts.”
The event will again be supported by after parade events at Apex Park.
In addition to the Rotary Club of Gawler light switching on their Riverbank Christmas Display at 8:45 pm, the Gawler Apex Club will be holding their traditional Christmas Market in conjunction with the parade from 5 pm till 9 pm.
Mr Piccolo said event was caught by surprise last year by the sheer number of spectators, hence the plans to provide more catering and entertainment options.
“We are fortunate that the event has attracted more sponsorship, giving us the opportunity to provide more free entertainment for the children attending,” said Mr Piccolo.
“We fully appreciate that some families are doing tough at the moment, so we are pleased to provide the community with a free event that provides entertainment for the whole family.
The compulsory rehearsal will take place on Sunday afternoon 10th November for all entrants involved in the parade to help ensure everything runs smoothly come Parade Day.