Lighting up the season in Spokane Valley

An upcoming event in Spokane Valley is promising to be festive and fun.

A student at University High School is the coordinator of the 2023 Parade of Lights, which is now in its third year. Participants may drive their own personal vehicles, but commercial vehicles are also encouraged to take part, as are marching groups, illuminated trailers, and parade floats. Participants should try to decorate their vehicles with as many lights as possible to add to the ambiance.

Participants should park at Brown Park, University High School, or Chester Elementary School, before 4.00pm. After that, they are welcome to head to the high school’s west park lot to look at the crafts made by local vendors, enjoy cocoa, and learn at education booths, several of which will promote awareness of mental health issues.

The parade organizer, Lizzie, says she began the event because she recognized the impact the pandemic had on people’s mental health, and wanted to bring cheer to as many people as she could. She realized that holiday lights were what she was looking for and, with the support of her Girl Scout Troop and others, began the parade.

The parade is scheduled for Saturday, December 16, from 4.30pm until 5.30pm. The parade starts at Horizon Middle School, heads north on Pines and ends at University High School. When outdoor events like this are planned, city officials may consider using banner printing to create seasonal decorations that will stand up to poor weather.