Photo: The Prescott Regulators and Their Shady Ladies
In 1983, the Prescott Chamber of Commerce organized its inaugural Christmas parade, which has since become a cherished holiday tradition in the community.
On a crisp, azure-hued December day, Prescott, Arizona, came alive with the jubilant sounds and sights of its 42nd Annual Christmas Parade. Residents and visitors alike lined the streets, united in holiday cheer and community pride, as floats, marching bands, and festive performers wound their way through spectators huddled together, bundled in winter layers that gradually peeled away as sunlight warmed their faces.
Marching bands, school groups, and local organizations each contributed to the tapestry of community celebration, their carefully crafted displays representing the heart and soul of Prescott. Performers waved and smiled, creating moments of connection that bridged generations and neighborhoods. Amid the jubilant atmosphere, a cascade of candies arced through the air, landing among delighted spectators who scrambled to collect the skybound candy, their laughter mixing with the parade’s jubilant soundtrack. Each candy became a trophy, a sparkling token of the parade’s magic.
The parade was more than just a parade—it was a living, breathing testament to the town’s shared joy, unity, and collective pride.
From the Pirates of the Caribbean costumes……..
to the last one standing from our fire fighting Granite Mountain Hotshots tragedy in 2013, a parade to remember for sure.
At the heart of the parade marched Brendan McDonough, the lone survivor of that devastating day. His presence is a powerful testament to resilience, to survival, and to the profound sacrifice of his fellow firefighters. Each step he takes is weighted with memory – of Eric Marsh, Andrew Ashcraft, Robert Caldwell, Travis Carter, Dustin Deford, Christopher MacKenzie, Grant McKee, Sean Misner, Scott Norris, Wade Parker, John Percin, Anthony Rose, and Jesse Steed.
The parade is more than just a procession; it’s a living memorial.
The Prescott Antique Auto Club showed off their beautifully restored beauties.
There were bands, both formal
and informal
Businesses and historical societies made an appearance. The Arizona Rough Riders, Culture Construction, Firewise, the Prescott Regulators and Their Shady Ladies, among others.
And, of course, the one vehicle we are all glad to see when we are completely lost on the trails around Prescott, the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Jeep.
