SCHENECTADY — The countdown to Santa’s arrival in Schenectady for the 55th Annual Holiday Parade has begun. With just a month to go, Schenectady County has unveiled some exciting new additions to the event scheduled for Nov. 23. These include a sensory-friendly zone at Proctors for families and an additional grandstand along the parade route.
The sensory-safe area will be located in the GE Theatre at Proctors. The parade will be live-streamed on the theater’s movie screen, with subdued lighting and comfortable bean bag chairs and mats for attendees. This quiet, relaxed environment will provide a respite from the noise and lights of the parade taking place on State Street outside.
In an effort to make the parade more inclusive, the county has partnered with the Crossroads Center for Children to manage the free sensory space. This initiative aims to accommodate families who have previously been unable to attend the bustling parade, which features floats and marching bands parading through the city streets.
“Our goal is to make the parade more diverse and inclusive,” said County Legislature Chair Gary Hughes at a press conference on Wednesday. “We understand that there are many families who have a family member with sensory issues, making it difficult for them to attend such events. We wanted to find a way to include those who would otherwise feel excluded.”
Megan DeFiores, Crossroads Supervision Coordinator, shared that her family had previously avoided large-scale events like parades due to overstimulation. The sensory-safe space is designed to provide a haven for children who need a break from the parade.
“I believe this is a significant barrier for families,” DeFiores said on Wednesday. “Even if they don’t use this resource, just knowing that it’s available can provide a sense of relief. They know they are seen, they are welcome, and they are not alone.”
Vicki Ramotar, resource development specialist at Crossroads Center, sees the sensory space as a stepping stone for families to attend their first parade if their child has sensory sensitivity.
“We want them to try new experiences, and attending the parade is a great first step,” Ramotar said on Wednesday. “Even if they spend the entire night in the sensory space, that’s okay. Maybe next year, they’ll have a better understanding of what a parade is and they’ll try to venture out for a few minutes.”
The parade’s Veteran Division is also making a comeback to next month’s event. Hughes announced on Wednesday that the division will now be a permanent part of the festivities, inviting veterans countywide to sign up on the county website to march in the parade.
Additionally, the county announced on Wednesday that a second platform will be set up on lower State Street near the corner of South Ferry Street. This platform will be hosted by The Daily Gazette’s Shenandoah Briere and Stan Hudy, who will provide live commentary for attendees and also livestream the event.
The Gazette’s float featuring Santa Claus will also maintain its traditional spot as the grand finale in the parade procession.
“We’re thrilled to be part of this wonderful event for Schenectady once again,” Gazette Editor Miles Reed noted. “Every year, the Gazette staff feel privileged to march alongside the main float carrying Santa through the town, to the delight of thousands of spectators along the route. We can’t wait.”
The county announced in August that members of the City Mission’s Downtown Ambassador program would serve as the grand marshals of the parade.
Over the past fifteen years, the program has helped formerly homeless individuals become greeters and community helpers in downtown Schenectady. The ambassadors are now set to lead the annual parade when it kicks off at 5 p.m. on Nov. 23.
“I’m so honored and grateful to be chosen to be a grand marshal,” ambassador Anthony Mayers said on Wednesday.
Feast your eyes on these stunning images captured by Stan Hudy, a renowned photographer. The images depict the kick-off press conference for the 55th annual Holiday Parade, a cherished tradition in Schenectady. The event was jointly presented by the City and County of Schenectady and took place on Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2024, at Proctor’s GE Theater in Schenectady.
Gary Hughes, Chair of the Schenectady County Legislature, shares his thoughts during the press conference.
Schenectady mayor Gary McCarthy also took the stage to share his remarks during the press conference.
These images offer a glimpse into the excitement and anticipation that filled the room as the city prepared for the annual Holiday Parade. Stay tuned for more updates on this beloved event.
Experience the magic of the holiday season in Schenectady! The city and county of Schenectady are thrilled to announce the 55th annual Holiday Parade. The kick-off press conference was held at Proctor’s GE Theater on Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2024, where Schenectady mayor Gary McCarthy shared his excitement and anticipation for the upcoming event.
Image Credit: Stan Hudy
Mark Eagan, President and CEO of the Capital Region Chamber & Center for Economic Growth, also graced the occasion. He expressed his enthusiasm for the parade and the positive impact it has on the local economy.
Image Credit: Stan Hudy
Stay tuned for more updates on the 55th annual Holiday Parade. We can’t wait to celebrate this festive season with you in Schenectady!
Feast your eyes on these captivating images, each one meticulously resized to fit your viewing preference. Whether you’re browsing on a small mobile screen or a large desktop monitor, these photos will adapt to your needs, ensuring a seamless viewing experience.
Mark Eagan, the esteemed President and CEO of the Capital Region Chamber & Center for Economic Growth, shares his insightful remarks during the press conference that marked the commencement of the 55th annual Holiday Parade. This grand event, presented by the City and County of Schenectady, took place on Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2024, at the iconic Proctor’s GE Theater in Schenectady.
Cathy Gatta, the dynamic Vice Chair of the Legislature and Chair of the Tourism, Arts & Special Events Committee, delivers her remarks during the same press conference. Her enthusiasm and dedication to the event were palpable, adding to the excitement of the upcoming 55th annual Holiday Parade.
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At the press conference announcing the 55th annual Holiday Parade, Michael Saccocio, the Executive Director of Schenectady City Mission, introduces the grand marshalls, who are Schenectady’s downtown ambassadors. The event was held on Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2024, at Proctor’s GE Theater in Schenectady.
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