OCALA, FL (352today.com) – It’s the largest parade of its kind in the state and the most anticipated event on Marion County’s annual calendar.
The Friends of the Christmas Parade received a certificate of recognition at the Marion County Board of County Commissioners meeting Jan. 21, 2025.
Marion County Chair Kathy Bryant expressed gratitude to the Friends of the Christmas Parade for preserving this beloved tradition.
“It is all of our passion,” said Sue Mosley, chair of the Friends of the Christmas Parade, emphasizing the importance of keeping the spirit of Christ in Christmas. “We’ve been doing it a long time; some of us have been on the committee for almost 30 years. I’d like to recognize Kevin Patzwald, who is the longest-serving committee member. He’s been on the committee for 30 years.”
The event’s success is driven by a dedicated core group, as organizing the parade is a massive year-round effort—the largest annual event in Marion County. Mosley highlighted the committee’s teamwork, with each member focusing on their specific responsibilities.
“Parade day is tough for us, but we love it,” Mosley said. “At the end of the day, we’re all exhausted, but we’re glad to do this for the community. Everyone who’s involved does this for free, which is important. They give up their time and their talent, and we appreciate that. We appreciate the Marion Board of County Commissioners and Marion County for allowing us to use the staging area. That’s very important to us because we kind of take over your facility for the day.”
The parade typically attracts between 60,000 and 80,000 attendees, with higher turnouts during rainy weather. This year’s event drew more than 70,000 spectators.
“It was good weather a great day and it was also our largest parade to date with 158 units,” Mosley said. “It was good weather, a great day, and also our largest parade to date with 158 units,” Mosley said. After confirming with several other state chamber organizations, she added, “We do still hold the title of the largest Christmas parade in Florida, and we’re proud of that.”
Mosley also reflected on the Belleview Christmas Parade, which featured over 50 units. Growing up in Belleview and attending Lake Weir High School, she had once marched in the parade as a member of the high school band.
“When they (the City of Belleview asked to organize the parade) asked, we said, ‘Sure, we’ll do it.’ We enjoyed doing that as well,” Mosley said. “We appreciate the support that we get from the community, and we do have some great sponsors, and we appreciate that.”