December 11, 2008

San Jose Holiday Parade: a timeless holiday celebration

San Jose’s annual holiday tradition boasting big brassy marching bands, oversized helium balloons, dazzling decorative floats, classic, costumed characters and fresh talent entertained parade-goers at the 27th annual internationally award-winning San Jose Holiday Parade on Sunday, Dec. 7.

Spectacular dancers and stunning floats entertained parade-goers at the 27th annual internationally award-winning San Jose Holiday Parade on Sunday, Dec. 7. Photos by Kymberli Brady

This year’s parade was jam-packed with various groups that thrilled the thousands of parade goers. Princess Aurora from the Disneyland® Resort was the 2008 grand marshal. She was preceded by a whimsical opening performance act by dancers from Ballet San Jose. Randy Jackson’s “America’s Best Dance Crew Season 2” was there entertaining as was canine pal Raggs and friends from the hit PBS children’s television show “Raggs.”

There was a special live performance from up-and-coming teen-pop singer Brianna James, a visit from several Bay area sports celebrities, the U.S. Marine Corps Band and much more. Plus, Santa arrived in grand style to Christmas in the Park, bringing the ultimate in holiday cheer.

The fun began the day before the parade with the ninth annual Inflation Celebration on Saturday. While the big balloons were being inflated, there was a showcase of spectacular floats and special vocal performances by James.

A number of people visited with Mrs. Claus and her friends at the Third Annual Mrs. Claus Breakfast Nook, presented by California Waste Solutions on Sunday morning. Those attending got a number of special treats. Besides a tasty breakfast there were visits from parade VIPs and costumed characters, premiere parade bleacher seats and special event memorabilia. All proceeds benefited the San Jose Holiday Parade.

Immediately after the parade, there was ParadeFest@ Christmas in the Park until 7 p.m. Festivities included an exclusive meet-and-greet with parade special guests and musical entertainment from the top parade participants; free giveaways from the parade’s honorary sponsors; a visit from the Coca-Cola holiday truck; and other fun activities for the entire family. The exciting and memorable weekend came to an end when the parade and the Toys for Tots Program presented a live winter concert featuring the U.S. Marine Corps Band from San Diego.

The San Jose Holiday Parade is a program of the city of San Jose Department of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services, in cooperation with Christmas in the Park, Inc. and NBC Bay Area. It is one of the many feature attractions of downtown San Jose for the holidays.