It’s time to celebrate a “Down-Home Christmas” in the Camellia City as the Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce gears up for its annual Christmas Parade, which will kick off at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 9.

Dr. Jean Thompson, recently retired from LBW Community College, will be the grand marshal for the event-one of only a handful of women who have served in that capacity.

“This is Dr. Jean’s year and we are so proud of her accomplishments and what she has meant to this community,” said GACOC director Francine Wasden.

“I was very surprised and thrilled when Francine called to give me the news,” said Thompson. “I truly feel this is a honor.”

Activities will begin in Confederate Park at 5 p.m. with concessions provided by Greenville P&R and musical offerings planned, along with a visit from Santa, who will chat with youngsters and hear their Christmas wishes. The annual tree lighting ceremony is set for 6:15 p.m.

As with the Trick or Treat on Commerce St. in October, Commerce St. will be blocked off between the courthouse and the underpass, and all cars must be moved off that portion of the street by 5 p.m., Wasden said.

“There will still be convenient parking available on side streets and handicapped parking will be accessible in the parking area between the post office and City Hall,” Wasden said.

Already lined up to perform in the parade are the bands from Greenville High School and Georgiana School. Float building for the festive night is well underway around the city, Wasden said.

“Greenville Pediatrics will again feature a scale model play house on their float, to be raffled off as a fundraiser for Safe Harbor,” she added.

Parade entry forms are available at the Depot and can be accessed online at www.greenville-alabama.com, or call 382-3251. More details about the parade and park activities will be featured in upcoming editions of The Greenville Advocate