Get your yearly dose of holiday cheer in Bayside next month.
On Sunday, Dec. 2, from 3 to 5:30 p.m., Councilman Paul Vallone and the Bayside Village Business Improvement District (BID) invite the community to the Fifth Annual Children’s Holiday Parade & Lighting Ceremony.
The family-friendly activities include holiday caroling, performances, marching bands, free holiday treats and hot chocolate for the kids. Attendees will also get the opportunity to participate in Christmas tree and holiday lighting, Menorah lighting and a visit from Santa who will trade in his sleigh for a ride atop an FDNY fire truck.
In past years, hundreds have gathered to experience the holiday spirit, marching along Bell Boulevard from 36th Avenue to Bayside Long Island Rail Road station. As is tradition, the Bayside BID’s annual lighting ceremony will be waiting for holiday revelers at the end of the parade route.
Organizers ask that marchers gather at 36th Avenue off Bell Boulevard by the Redeemer Lutheran Church of Bayside before 3 p.m. All groups, schools, associations and sports leagues are invited to march in the parade and participants are also invited to set up a holiday table for informational or commercial purposes.
According to Vallone’s office, here are a list of confirmed participants so far:
- NYPD Ceremonial Unit (Band)
- P.S. 31 (Performer too)
- P.S. 41 (Performer too)
- St. Andrews Choir (Performer too)
- MM Rock Camp (Performer too)
- Landrum School of Dance (Performer too)
- Auburndale Soccer Club
- OLBS CYO
- Girl scout troop from St. Kevin’s Catholic Academy
- Girl Scout Troop 4202
- Whitepoint Youth Football and Cheer
- Bayside Little League
- Dwarf Giraffe Athletic League
- Northwest Bayside Civic Association
- Classic Cars
- Santa
- FDNY Fire Truck
Those who have any questions or would like to participate are encouraged to contact Ahmed Nazaar any time at 718-619-8611 or email Anazaar@council.nyc.gov.
Story updated on Monday, Nov. 19 at 5:28 p.m.