No Christmas Parade? Well, That’s a Real Drag: Volunteers Get Creative to Share Christmas Spirit

Many in the community were disappointed to hear last week that Marlow’s annual Christmas parade had been canceled due to concerns over increasing COVID-19 numbers county-wide. The board of directors of the Marlow Chamber of Commerce, which organizes the parade each year, was at a loss as to how to conduct the parade safely for all involved.

Days later, a small group of volunteers headed by Natalie Korn approached the City of Marlow to explore a new idea: a Christmas Light Drag throughout town on Saturday evening to spread holiday cheer and continue the tradition that kicks off the Christmas season for the town.

The concept is simple: residents may stay at home or park along the route, while volunteers cruise the streets of Marlow in vehicles decorated with lights and playing Christmas music along the way.

“We still wanted to do something,” Korn said. “But we wanted to make sure it was safe for everyone. I think we’ll be able to do that, and even share some Christmas spirit with even more people who couldn’t otherwise get out to see a parade.”

The route includes a tour past assisted living facilities and nursing homes so that residents and staff can enjoy the sights and sounds without leaving the buildings.

Korn worked with Marlow City Administrator Jason McPherson to not only explore the possibility of “dragging” Marlow streets safely, but also get the assistance of Marlow Police and Fire departments. Although the event is not officially run by the City, the drag will be led by police escort and the fire department will bring up the rear.

Radio station KFXI will be on-site and drivers are asked to tune their radios to 92.1 so that all vehicles are playing Christmas carols.

Those who want to participate in the drag should head to Eddie Palmer park on Saturday, December 5 at 5:30pm to line up with the other decorated vehicles. Because the event will begin after sunset, participants are asked to use plenty of Christmas lights in decorations. Vehicles must be street-legal for safety and throwing candy and other items is discouraged.

Pre-registration is not required, but Korn said that it would help to know how many vehicles to plan for. Participants may contact the organizers via their “Marlow Christmas Light Drag” group on Facebook.

There are ample parking lots for those who want to watch but don’t live along the route, including at the multipurpose gym on 9th Street.

“We’re asking people who park and watch to remain in their cars for everyone’s safety,” Korn added. “We just want everyone to have a good time.”