Last Chance to Enter Lake Wales' Christmas Night Parade

The deadline for entering a float in the Lake Wales Christmas night parade is fast approaching, according to members of the sponsoring Rotary on the Ridge. Those interested in being a part of the event have until November 30 to send in their entry forms.

The theme of this year's procession is "Toys on Parade," and numerous entries are expected to feature toys, some on a gigantic scale.

The parade will follow a modified route through the city this year after lining up at Polk Avenue Elementary School and proceeding north on First Street to the downtown area. The deviation is planned to accommodate ongoing reconstruction of downtown streets.

The parade will start at 6:00 pm on Saturday, December 9, allowing for the use of showy lighted floats.

A scaled entry fee is requested of those entering floats and marching units, with large businesses paying $75, while small businesses face a $50 fee. Non-profits pay only $25, and all funds collected go to help with Rotary programs to benefit the community, including Camp Fearless Girls Leadership retreat and the Josh the Otter water safety program.

Rotary on the Ridge, one of three Rotary Clubs in Lake Wales, assumed responsibility for the parade after the disbanding of the local Kiwanis Club after many decades of service to the community.