Get into the Christmas spirit at the Elizabethtown Holiday Parade presented by MARS Wrigley. The parade will take place on Saturday, Dec. 6. It will kick off at 4 p.m. from the corner of College Avenue and South Market Street. The route will run north along Market Street from College Avenue to Hummelstown Street.

Local organizations, businesses and churches will join the Elizabethtown middle and high school bands in the parade. Additional entries will include dance performance groups, local emergency services and unicyclers, as well as an appearance by Santa Claus.

With a theme of Holiday Traditions, the parade promises to bring a festive atmosphere, said Karrie Norman, GEARS program coordinator. GEARS has organized the parade since 2017.

"All of the groups entered in this year's parade are excited to share their floats and bring guests a boost of holiday spirit," Norman remarked. "You can expect to see someone you know or an organization/business that you have patronized among the 50-plus groups that will be participating!"

Along with having fun, parade entries are eligible to win a variety of prizes. Trophies will be awarded for groups in the following categories: Best Use of Theme, Best Holiday Spirit, Best Performance and Best Overall Appearance. 

Returning judges will be Caroline Lalvani, director of public affairs at Elizabethtown College; Brett Thackara, meteorologist at ABC 27; and Damien Weaver, plant director at MARS Wrigley.

"The parade is presented by MARS Wrigley who also provides all of the candy that is given out during the parade," Norman said.

The parade is just one of many community events GEARS hosts throughout the year. With a mission of connecting people of all ages through recreation, learning, child care and senior center services that strengthen the community and the quality of life of residents, GEARS was founded in 1976 as Elizabethtown Area Recreation Commission. It was renamed GEARS (Greater Elizabethtown Area Recreation & Community Services) in 2000. GEARS was honored with the Elizabethtown Chamber's Non-Profit of the Year Award for 2025.

Hosting the parade is an annual highlight for GEARS staff, Norman said, adding, "It's a joy to be part of this event that brings together the community and is something that will create core memories for all ages."

The parade will be held rain or shine. For more information, visit http://www.getintogears.org or follow "GEARS" on Facebook.