It’s the most wonderful time of the year! The 2016 Hometown Holiday Horse Parade returns on Saturday, November 19th at 7 pm in downtown Greenville! This annual tradition in Darke County has kicked off the holiday season for the downtown district the past 13 years!
The 2016 Grand Marshal will be Dean and Arlene Bankson of Wieland Jewelers. “Dean and Arlene have owned and operated one of the oldest establishments in downtown Greenville. The couple were also involved with the beginning stages of revitalization efforts in the district,” said Amber Garrett, Executive Director for Main Street Greenville.
Voted best parade by the readers of Ohio Magazine in 2015, the lighted event boosts 90+ entries and brings an estimated 8,000+ spectators into the downtown area. The parade will travel down South Broadway, travel around the circle, and return back up South Broadway.
The committee would like to remind spectators to stay off of the street during the parade and do not try to cross S. Broadway once the parade has begun. In addition, please do not dangle your legs over the edge of the curb. “We want a safe environment for everyone. For those who are watching the parade and for those who bring their horses to participate,” said Chief Dennis Butts, Chief of Police for the City of Greenville.
Main Street Greenville, the non-profit organization that has been coordinating the event since 2004, and the Hometown Holiday Horse Parade Committee utilizes many volunteers within the community to make the event happen, as well as provide multiple entertainment options leading up to the parade. “This event helps to highlight our beautiful downtown to those who live here and those who visit. It is a great way to start your family’s holiday celebrations,” said Diana Stebbins, 2016 Parade Chairperson.
Below you will find the current list of entertainment / events for the day, please follow Main Street Greenville's Facebook Page to receive updates as they occur.
3:30 pm & 5:30 pm • Storytime at Bread of Life • 533 S. Broadway
Pre-registration required, call 937-547-1132, story time featuring The Legend of the Christmas Cookie
4-6:30 pm • Romer’s Catering Delightful Dinner Buffet • 118 E. Main St.
Reservations required, includes free premier parking
4-7 pm • Shop & dine downtown before the parade
Over 30 independent shops and dining establishments
5-7 pm • FREE Pony Rides • First Congregational Christian Church • 115 W. 5th St.
Located on the side lawn
5:00-5:45 pm • Joseph Helfrich
Local singer, performs your favorite holiday hits in front of the Darke Co. Courthouse, corner of 4th and S. Broadway
5:45-6:45 pm • Joelle York
Local singer, performs your favorite holiday hits at the Circle Fountain, intersection of Broadway & Main Street
6-8 pm • HER Realtors Holiday Open House
537 S. Broadway, Suite 202, located on the Second Floor, follow the signs - refreshments and appetizers
6:30 pm • Silver Lining Rodeo Drill Team Performance
Team will perform in front of the Darke Co. Courthouse, corner of 4th and S. Broadway
7 pm • 13th Annual Hometown Holiday Horse Parade
Over 90 lighted horse-drawn carriages, hitches and riders illuminate South Broadway for a grand holiday tradition
Main Street Greenville would like to thank the families who bring their horses to this parade event. “It is a lot of work for them. They arrive at the staging area as early as 3 pm to prepare for the event. The parade simply would not be possible without their commitment. They do an amazing job,” said Amber Garrett, Executive Director for Main Street Greenville.
Main Street Greenville also thanks the local businesses who help to sponsor this annual event, a full list of sponsors can be found on their website. This year's Platinum Parade Sponsors are Wayne Healthcare, Greenville Federal, Interim HealthCare, and Edison State Community College. “We are thankful for our sponsors’ support. Many are continued sponsors who help us create this event for our community each year,” said Joel Allread, Board President for Main Street Greenville.