Fall Foliage Parade

North Adams residents are being challenged this year to create floats, costumes and more to celebrate all their favorite holidays. The celebration is the theme of this year’s Fall Foliage Parade, set for Sunday, October 2nd.

Individuals and organizations are encouraged to let their imaginations run free. Anything that can be driven or pulled along the parade route can be made into a float, including flatbeds, bikes, golf carts, tractors, horses, pickup truck beds and the like. Balloons, tissue paper, steamers, fringe, flags, bunting, decorating fabric, pennant banners, garlands, lights, painted cardboard, house and yard décor, items from nature can all be used to portray the theme.

The Grand Marshals for the parade, the Arnold and King families, know a thing or two about bringing good cheer to the community. More that 30 years ago, Wayne Arnold began decorating his house with a few porch lights, a tradition that has grown into a display of thousands of sparkling lights.

From 1968 to 2015, MaryAnn and Leon King have dressed as Mr. and Mrs. Clause for the North Adams’ tree lighting. They continue to volunteer and make appearances for various groups and organizations.

The two families represent a tradition of goodwill but there will be some changes in this year’s parade. There is a new starting point for the shorter 1.2-mile parade route at the intersection of State Street and Old State Street. The route is mostly flat making the parade more walkable and less time-consuming for all ages and abilities. The parade ends at Ashland Street and Washington Avenue.

Line-up for the parade begins at DiSanti Field. The parade route will be closed to vehicular traffic at 12:30PM.

To enter a float, fill out the form found here. There is no jurying.