5 Reasons to Attend the Dallas Holiday Parade
I had received a call from my friend who asked me if I wanted to go with him to the Dallas Holiday Parade. “Say what!?” I responded. I have been living in Dallas for almost 8 years and I had never heard or seen much advertisement for the Dallas Holiday Parade. It could be that there are lots of holiday events to do in the metroplex…that these events overshadowed the parade itself. Regardless, how could this be? The parade for any city, is usually a pretty big deal. Of course i told my friend that I would certainly attend! My husband and I woke up early Saturday morning and headed off to the parade, the first time we both had visited this event. Needless to say we both enjoyed the parade, and I wanted to share 5 reason you should attend next year!
1. Sits in the Heart of the City
The parade takes place in Downtown Dallas, the heart of the city. If you are like me, you don’t visit downtown Dallas as often during the year. This was a great time to visit downtown and also see all the other Christmas decorations the beautiful city of Dallas puts on. I highly recommend taking a camera (if you are into those high quality DSLR) or taking pics because there will be many moments for photo opps.
2. Touring the Adolphus hotel
Depending where you stand, you may be near or around the historic Adolphus hotel. The hotel and it’s staff are very friendly and you have the opportunity to wander inside to tour a bit. The lobby itself is GORGEOUS and we were able to snap a photo by their tall and glamorous tree. Within the last few years, they have renovated the hotel to a more modern art deco, or even mid-century style. It’s worth the visit! You can even get there early enough for some brunch at the City Hall Bistro before heading out to the parade. I highly recommend getting to this restaurants (which sits inside the hotel) through the back door if you are not able to go through the front of the hotel. Might get crowded, but you can find the door to this restaurant a street behind the hotel. The food was delicious!
3. Exposure to Diversity in Interests and Cultures
You all know how much diversity is important to me! During this parade, I admired that they highlighted different groups that target the community interests and cultures. Even more proof that Dallas is a diverse city! Some of my favorites were the Vintage Society of Dallas, and of course the folkloric dancing to name a few. I also enjoyed seeing the different school pride ranging from middle school up to college students. It was great to see these students belch out their passions in the band.
4. Get into the Holiday Spirit
With it’s giant balloons, and festive floats…how can you NOT get into the holiday spirit! Another thing I enjoyed about the parade was the engagement of the parade participants. A lot of them were so friendly and wished many of us, by the stands or standing, a Merry Christmas. This may not seem like much but it definitely put me in a jolly mood! I also enjoyed when some of the participants interacted with children. Ya’ll I grew up going to parades as a tradition, so I know these kids will always remember these moments as I did.
5. A Fun event for Family or Group of friends
I went with my husband and a friend, and we had a great time! The parade is not only for families but literally for everyone. I enjoy going to events that offer a little bit of everything for a variety of ages, and this parade does just that. We enjoyed it so much that we plan to go next year! This years’ weather was perfect! Hoping to keep this tradition going.
Do you enjoy parades or festive events? If you live in the DFW, what other parades or holiday events do you recommend in the metroplex?
Happy Holidays!
