Brevard County Parks and Recreation has officially opened registration for its annual holiday parades in Merritt Island and the Cocoa/Rockledge area. Community groups, local businesses, and individuals are invited to participate in the upcoming festivities, which will feature the theme "Rockin’ Around the Holidays."
The two separate events are scheduled for consecutive Saturdays in early December, providing festive entertainment for residents across the county. Both parades will be emceed by Mindy from the 'Mindy and Company' show on Lite Rock 99.3, an iHeartMedia radio station.
Key Takeaways
- Registration is now open for the Merritt Island and Cocoa/Rockledge holiday parades.
- The theme for both events is "Rockin’ Around the Holidays."
- The Merritt Island parade is on Saturday, December 6, and the Cocoa/Rockledge parade is on Saturday, December 13.
- Both parades are scheduled to begin at 10 a.m.
- Contact the Central Area Parks Operations office for registration details.
Merritt Island Holiday Parade Details
The first of the two celebrations, the Merritt Island Holiday Parade, is set for Saturday, December 6. Participants and spectators should note that the event will begin promptly with a 10 a.m. step-off time.
The parade route has been carefully planned to maximize visibility and community access. It will begin at Grove Boulevard, adjacent to Merritt Island High School. From there, the procession will travel south along Courtenay Parkway, also known as State Road 3.
The route concludes at Edgewood Junior/Senior High School, located on Merritt Avenue. This path ensures the parade travels through a central part of the community, allowing families to gather along the main thoroughfare to enjoy the festive floats and performances.
About the Organizer
Brevard County Parks and Recreation is the government body responsible for organizing these community events. The department manages public parks, recreational facilities, and community programs throughout the county, aiming to enhance the quality of life for residents through events like the annual holiday parades.
Cocoa and Rockledge Parade Information
One week later, the holiday spirit continues with the Cocoa/Rockledge Holiday Parade on Saturday, December 13. This event will also commence with a 10 a.m. step-off, maintaining a consistent start time for both celebrations.
The parade route for this event starts at Rockledge High School. From the high school, participants will travel north on Florida Avenue, a key street connecting the two communities. The route then turns onto the historic Brevard Avenue in Cocoa Village.
The parade's conclusion is planned for Lee Wenner Park, a scenic waterfront location in Cocoa. This route is designed to pass through the hearts of both Rockledge and Cocoa, culminating in a festive atmosphere at the park.
Event Emcee
Mindy from 'Mindy and Company' on Lite Rock 99.3 will serve as the master of ceremonies for both parades. Her involvement brings a professional and familiar voice to the community events, enhancing the experience for all attendees.
How to Register for the Parades
Organizations and individuals interested in participating in either parade must register in advance. Brevard County Parks and Recreation has designated a central point of contact for all inquiries and registration forms.
To get more information or to sign up, interested parties should contact the Central Area Parks Operations office. This office handles the logistics and coordination for both events, ensuring a smooth and organized experience for everyone involved.
Contact Information
For direct assistance with registration or questions about parade guidelines, you can use the following contact details:
- Phone: Call the Central Area Parks Operations office at 321-633-1874.
- Email: Send inquiries to Delinda Griffis at [email protected].
Officials encourage early registration as spots can fill up quickly. Participating in the parade is a popular tradition for many local schools, community organizations, and businesses looking to connect with residents during the holiday season.
Community Impact and Tradition
The annual holiday parades in Brevard County are long-standing traditions that bring together thousands of residents. These events serve as a significant cultural touchstone for the communities of Merritt Island, Cocoa, and Rockledge, fostering a sense of local pride and holiday cheer.
Local businesses often report increased foot traffic on parade days, providing a boost to the local economy. For families, the parades offer free, accessible entertainment and create lasting memories. The "Rockin’ Around the Holidays" theme for this year is expected to inspire creative and musical float designs, adding to the vibrant atmosphere.
According to Brevard County Parks and Recreation, these events are made possible through the collaboration of county staff, volunteers, and community participants. The department emphasizes that the parades are a celebration of the community itself and encourages widespread participation to reflect the diverse character of the area.