MCPS bulletin on the Christmas Parade

File photo: Andrew Gleason plays the French Horn as he marches with other members of the Howard Middle School Marching Band during the Ocala Christmas Parade in Ocala, Fla. on Saturday, Dec. 11, 2021. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette] 2021.

Marion County Public Schools is pleased to broadcast the 66th annual Ocala Christmas Parade live on television and YouTube this Saturday, Dec. 10, starting at 5:30 p.m.
The event typically draws over 60,000 spectators to East Silver Springs Boulevard, many staking claim to seats days ahead of time along the two-mile parade route.
This year’s theme is “Hometown Christmas” and involves thousands of riders, marchers, volunteers, dignitaries, and other participants. The theme honors military members and first responders including law enforcement, firefighters and medical personnel.
The grand marshal is George Mathis, an Ocala small business owner who sets the example of community giving in time, talent, and treasure.
Nearly 100 parade units including floats, marching bands, dance troupes, baton twirling groups, motorcycle units, equine entries and more are taking part this year. The line-up also includes local elected officials, military units, business owners, dozens of other community groups, and, of course, Santa Claus.
On-air commentators this year include Public Relations Director Kevin Christian, Chief Financial Officer Theresa Boston-Ellis, and Superintendent Dr. Diane Gullett, all representing Marion County Public Schools.
The parade livestreams on the district YouTube channel (www.YouTube.com/MarionCountyK12) and airs live on the Marion Education Channel (MEC), available on local cable systems Comcast (Channel 99) and Cox (Channel 12).
The parade replays on the MEC every Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. through New Year’s Day.
These broadcasts are offered as a community service by Marion County Public Schools. The Ocala Christmas Parade is organized by the Friends of the Christmas Parade, a non-profit organization made up of community volunteers.
Contact the district’s Public Relations Office at 352.671.7555 for more information.