Pittmans named Aragon parade grand marshals
Aragon may be the county’s smallest town, but the city doesn’t pull any punches when it comes to community events.
The second annual Aragon Christmas Parade is slated for Dec. 9 at 4 p.m.., and the organizers are looking to make improvements to ensure that folks can see the floats and enjoy a late afternoon event through the mill village.
This year’s official parade theme is “Country Christmas.” Floats and costumes are encouraged to feature all things natural, rustic, and southern.
“We didn’t have a theme last year, but I felt Country Christmas fit really well for a small town like Aragon,” parade organizer Lisa Riley said. “We’re having the parade at 4 p.m., so there won’t be any need for lights on floats just thematic items.”
Larry and Sadie Pittman will serve as the parade’s grand marshals. An honorary title, grand marshals are honored based on their past service to the community and many other factors, and those selected lead the parade from the front.
“The Pittman’s have contributed greatly to Aragon, and we think it would be an honor to have them serve as grand marshals for the parade,” Riley explained. Larry Pittman previously served as mayor and the Rockmart High School principal prior to his retirement.
He continues to serve as a friend to the county’s citizens to this day. Sadie was also very active in the community and would volunteer at nursing homes and babysit children whom continue to look up to her.
“They’re just wonderful people,” Diane Abernathy, a friend of the Pittman’s, said. “I’ve never heard anyone say anything bad about them. They help people in need, and anyone that ever meets them never forgets them.”
The parade follows a similar route to the first annual Aragon parade. Like last holiday season, citizens will be able to watch the marchers, floats and musicians from the comfort of their home, driveway or car.
“The parade starts on Groves Street, then takes a right onto First Street followed by a pass by of the Aragon Mill. Then, the parade heads onto Oak St. before moving to Sixth Street and finishing on Aragon Road,” Riley said. “Parking is available all over including the mill pond, next to the fields, and if you know anyone from the village you can always park in their driveway.”
Those interested in entering a float will find little resistance but should contact the organizer for paperwork and additional details. Like most parades, important rules are no throwing items of any sort, no reckless driving, riders must be secured, cleanup detail behind animals, and more. A full list of rules can be obtained from Riley.
“Entering floats is absolutely free, and entry is not limited to businesses or churches. Family oriented floats are welcome too,” Riley explained. “Aside from the universal rules, we really just ask that floats keep it family friendly. Those who want to sign up can get the paperwork from me in person at my office in Economy Storage or have it emailed to them.”
Riley can be reached by phone at 678616-5538; Economic Storage is located at 260 W. Elm St. in Aragon. The high school marching bands, Shriners, and Masons are a few groups on the organizers wish lists. The school’s talented musicians served as the main event for last year’s parade, and who doesn’t like watching the Shriners and Masons zooming around in tiny, iconic cars. The Aragon Christmas tree will go up in lights to mark the end of the festivities, and Santa will be present to greet the wishful boys and girls of Polk.