Torchlight Parade and Fireworks is Dec. 1

Montgomery’s annual Torchlight Parade and Fireworks celebrates its 30th anniversary this holiday season on Thursday, Dec. 1, and according to event organizers, plans are underway to make it bigger and better than ever.

Santa and his live reindeer will be near the intersection of Vine Avenue and First Street (between American Family Insurance and Frandsen Bank and Trust), starting at 5:30 p.m. Characters from “Frozen” will also be available for photos for no charge.

The parade will start at 6:30 p.m. and should last about 45 minutes. It starts on First Street at Boulevard Avenue and heads south. It will end at the Montgomery Library (corner of First Street and Oak Avenue).

The Schell’s Hobo Band, the Lakelanders, Tri-City United High School’s Drumline, and Most Holy Redeemer Catholic School’s Singing Angels will be providing musical entertainment in the parade.

The Amazing Hoopsters and TCU’s Titan Dance Team will also be performing.

Also, make sure to watch for Montgomery’s very own Princess Kay of the Milky Way Rachel Rynda and the Le Sueur County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse as they parade through downtown.

Riding on the lead float will be 10-year-old 2022 Torchlight Parade and Fireworks button designer Alaina Shevtsov, daughter of Matt and Ann Johnson of Le Center, and the parade’s Junior Grand Marshals, seven-year-olds Aurora Schultz and Cameron Barnett. Aurora is the daughter of Jamie and Owen Schultz. Cameron is the son of Keri and Kevin Barnett.

The fireworks show will take place one block south of the library, starting at approximately 7:30 p.m.

Many local businesses and organizations will provide food and refreshments on the parade route. Anyone interested in participating in the parade or being an event sponsor can contact Neaner Kriha at 507-364-5408. Donation boxes for Montgomery’s free Torchlight Parade and Fireworks can be found at various businesses in the area.

A limited number of 30th Annual Torchlight Parade and Fireworks buttons are also available at various local businesses.

For more information, look for the ad in this week’s issue of the Messenger or check out the “Montgomery Torchlight Parade & Fireworks” Facebook page.