APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — The largest nighttime parade in the Midwest will return to the streets of Appleton this holiday season.
The Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade is set for Tuesday, Nov. 21 at 7 p.m. The route will move east on College Avenue from State Street to Drew Street.
The parade committee announces this year’s theme is “The Music and Magic of Christmas.” And fittingly, the Heid Family will serve as this year’s Parade Marshal.
“Heid Music has built and cultivated a legacy of music in the Fox Valley,” said Corey Otis, Appleton Parade Committee Chairperson. “This year’s parade honors the Heid family’s countless contributions to music education, performance, and appreciation.”
In 1948, musician Peter “Duke” Heid, also known as Papa, opened Heid Music on College Avenue in Appleton. Now in its 75th year, Heid Music is a third-generation family-owned business with locations in Appleton, Green Bay, Stevens Point, Oshkosh, and Madison.
Organizations interested in participating in the Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade must complete and submit an official application before Oct. 2, 2023. Groups may apply via the Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade Facebook page, the City of Appleton website, U.S. Mail, or this link.
The parade draws 80,000 spectators to downtown Appleton annually.
