The much-anticipated Lafayette Christmas Parade rolls today.
The annual parade, hosted by Sonic Drive-In, starts at 1 p.m. on Jefferson Street downtown.
It will continue on to the Oil Center via Johnston St. and E St. Mary Blvd. Then, the parade hits Heymann Blvd. and will finish at its intersection with Audubon Blvd.
Those streets will be closed from 1 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Beginning at 4 a.m., there will be no parking allowed in the 100 block of Vine Street and from the 100 block of Jefferson Street to the intersection of Jefferson and Johnston streets.
Lafayette police remind drivers to plan ahead and use alternate routes.
Santa is used to being the star of any Christmas parade, but during Lafayette’s Christmas parade, local veterans are the shining stars.
All veterans from every branch of the military are urged to march (or ride) in the parade. Transportation will be provided, and there is no charge to participate. Veterans are asked to arrive in their uniforms or colors. They are to report to Vine Street, between 2nd and Jefferson streets, at noon. Participating veterans will then be directed to their position in the parade.
Parade organizers say this event is an excellent opportunity for Acadiana to show their appreciation for the men and women who have served in the armed forces.
High school marching bands and dance teams will also be participating in the parade.
Kids are asked to bring their letters to Santa in hopes Santa himself will receive it.
