CHARLOTTE — Charlotte’s annual Novant Health Thanksgiving Parade will return to in-person attendance a year after the COVID-19 pandemic forced the festivities to be a television-only event.
Organizers announced the parade will be held on Thanksgiving eve this year, Wednesday, Nov. 24, and will start at 6 p.m.
“Gathering in person for the holidays is something so many of us have anticipated for over a year,” said Jesse Cureton, executive vice president and chief consumer officer at Novant Health. “As we prepare to celebrate the 75th annual Novant Health Thanksgiving Parade I’m reminded of the rich history and traditions that the parade brings to our community. We are proud to announce our continued partnership as title sponsor of the parade for the next five years and look forward to kicking off a healthy holiday season!”
This year will mark the 75th anniversary of the parade and in recognition of all the health care workers who have worked tirelessly during the pandemic, the Grand Marshal will be Dr. David Priest from Novant Health.
Organizers said parade attendees are strongly encouraged to wear a mask, regardless of vaccination status, and, when possible, practice social distancing.
This year’s return to an in-person parade will feature local, regional and national talent and performers as well as inflatables, segwalloons and marching bands.
(WATCH BELOW: Thanksgiving Parade street closures in Uptown Charlotte)
In addition to a new day and time, this year’s 75th Anniversary Novant Health Thanksgiving Parade will include:
- 10 High School Marching Bands
- 4 Community Marching Bands
- 28 Specialty Units
- 13 Floats
- 7 Special Performers
- 8 Giant Balloons
The parade will take place along Tryon Street beginning at Ninth Street and ending at Stonewall Street.
Click here to sign up as a volunteer, or for more information about the parade.
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