40th Annual event expected to draw 25,000
It's going to be a great day, so don't be depressed Apopka Christmas Parade, middle age looks good on you.
With blue skies, and temperatures expected to be between 55 and 70 degrees, The Sertoma Club of Apopka will unveil its 40th Annual Apopka Christmas Parade this morning at 10AM.
An expected crowd of 25,000 (which was the estimated attendance last year) will watch as approximately 90 floats, vehicles, musicians, bands and displays will take the traditional route along Park Avenue from Third Street to Votaw Road. The common theme that all entries will use is "Birthday of the King!"
The parade originated in 1967 with the Apopka Chamber of Commerce in charge. In 1974, the Foliage Sertoma Club took over the event and has managed it ever since. It has become the largest parade in Orange County.
But size was never the goal according to Joyce Brocker.
"We see this as a chance to give back to Apopka," said Brocker, a former Foliage Sertoma President. “It’s for the enjoyment of our community.”
The parade costs are estimated to be around $6,000, which is raised by entry fees, private donations and business sponsorships.
John Ricketson is this year's Grand Marshall. Ricketson is the Publisher of The Apopka Chief and Planter. Pat McGuffin is the Master of Ceremonies. He is also the President of the Sertoma Club. His father Pat McGuffin Sr. is Sertoman of the Year.
Pamela Joy Smith, John Davie and Dorian Goodman have been announced as parade judges. They will award the best float and best marching band.
Among the sponsors are The City of Apopka, Florida Door Solutions, Iberia Bank, Seacoast Bank, Joyce Brocker, Nelson’s Insurance Agency, First United Methodist Church, Spurlock Group Real Estate Solutions, Waste Management, Fast Signs. and Beef O Brady’s.
The four bands marching in the parade are from Apopka, Evans, Ocoee and Wekiva High Schools.
