The Roosevelt County Chamber of Commerce says the lights won’t go out on the Portales Christmas Light Parade because of COVID-19 this year, but things will be different.
With COVID-19 restrictions in place throughout the state and regular parade permits unavailable, the Portales Light Parade will be stationary this year and families are invited to drive by the lineup to view the parade, including socially distanced Santa Claus. The parade is scheduled for 6 p.m., Friday, Dec. 4, beginning at the vicinity of Third and Abilene and continuing south on Abilene to City Park then around the park and back to Third Street depending on number of entries. The parade will end at 7 p.m.
“Things had to change but we wanted to make sure Portales continued one of its most popular Christmas events,” said Chamber Executive Director Karl Terry. “We had heard that lots of other communities were doing their parades this way and we figured that was our best option. This keeps crowds from mingling on the street waiting for the parade and keeps household members together in their own vehicle.”
The Little Miss Merry Christmas Contest pageant, normally held the day before the parade, will be virtual with interviews on Roosevelt County Chamber’s Facebook Live feed.
The Little Miss Merry Christmas float will head up the parade. The winner will be announced on Facebook Live at 6 p.m. and be crowned with help from their family. Three contestants are vying for the honor this year. Citlaly Landeros sponsored by Hair Haven Salon, Lilliana Smith, sponsored by Ace Hardware & Home Center and Emma Gonzales sponsored by Glen’s Garage. Donations, serving as votes, can be made at each business or by contacting the family. Those donations go toward Christmas decoration projects in Portales. See each girl’s photo and bio at portales.com and in local media.
Entries are being sought for the parade. Categories are the same as previous years with a plaque given to the first place winner in the categories of “Business,” “Non-profit” and “Church/Religious.” The entry form or online registration is available at portales.com or by calling Karl Terry directly at (575) 309-7541. Each entrant will be contacted by email or phone with their lineup number.
