Ida plans for 25th Christmas parade

10/17/2007

Forget that the temperature was nearly 90 degrees a few days ago. Coming up soon: yes, the holidays.

Organizers already have launched plans for the 25th Christmas in Ida Parade of Lights, and entries for the 2007 event downtown, set to step off at 7 p.m. Dec. 1, are being accepted.

The parade, which has been compared to nationally known light parades, last year sparkled with more than 130 illuminated fire trucks, floats, parade balloons, bands, cartoon characters, and marching units. Farm machinery twinkled with lights as well.

The parade caps off the day-long Christmas in Ida festival, and follows the Family Christmas Fireworks Show.

Festival events include ice sculpting, entertainment, ethnic foods, craft and vendor shows, a children's lunch with Santa, and Santa's Zoo. Parade rain date is Dec. 2 at the same time.

Entry forms are available from Dale Zoern, executive director, at 734-269-9395, or from Bob Knabusch, parade chairman, at 734-269-3670. Forms are also available on www.idacivicclub.org.