Seasonal celebrations promise to spread cheer

Downtown Sarasota Holiday Parade
Surprises are always in store when Paul Thorpe is involved. This year marks the 19th annual Downtown Sarasota Holiday Parade that Thorpe has helped coordinate. But every year is just as exciting as the last for him.

“We’ve got a lot of interesting participants this year,” Thorpe said. “We’re going to have something we’ve never done before.”

Previous year’s surprises have included live elephants marching with the parade.

This year, Main Street will be transformed into a winter wonderland Saturday, with the theme of a “White Christmas.” Every year the parade attracts between 20,000 to 25,000 onlookers, according to Thorpe, who enjoy seeing the 100 floats, bands and dance troupes. The first time Thorpe sees the finished floats is when they make their way down the street starting at 7 p.m.

“It surprises us more than anyone else because we don’t see it until it’s on the street,” Thorpe said. “It’s like opening a big present at Christmastime; you run down to see all the packages under the tree. We’re excited to see the results of everyone trying to meet the theme.”

Between floats will be live music from local high school marching bands, including Sarasota High School, Booker High School and Venice High School and the Riverview High School Kiltie Band. Per tradition, the parade will conclude with the arrival of Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus.

Asked about any surprises in store for this year’s parade Thorpe answered: “What would you think if you saw a white tiger in the parade?”

Flamingo Fantasyland

Take a stroll through Southside Village while holiday shopping this season with the Southside Village Holiday Stroll. Attendees will be immersed in a Flamingo Fantasyland from 5 to 9 p.m. Dec. 12. Everyone is encouraged to dress in his or her best flamingo-themed attire to enjoy a bounce house, giveaways and a chance to take a selfie with Santa.

There will also be donation boxes for new unwrapped toys to be donated to Toys for Tots. The event serves as a fundraiser for nearby Southside Elementary School. All participating stores will provide giveaways to holiday revelers, as well.