Carson City Olde Time Christmas Santa parade to unify community and veterans

For the last seven years, the annual Olde Time Christmas Santa Parade has brought holiday bliss to Carson City.

The community can thank Doreen Mack, president of Downtown 20/20, for making it happen.

“When we had that economy crunch in 2009, we needed something to promote the businesses downtown,” she said. “But now, it has become more of a community event.”

Another aspect Mack promotes is to combine today’s generation with veterans, as many volunteer to help out the non-profit parade with face painting, kids’ activities and raffles.

The parade is held on West Telegraph and Curry streets for each person to equally enjoy the parade, she said.

“It’s a small area and two blocks long,” she said. “But it promotes that we support children and parents, and ensuring all areas meet handicap requirements. We want the downtown community to establish and build relationships.”

She also plans to make a tribute to a late veteran but longtime volunteer, Richard Scott.

“He was in a wheelchair and helped out so much last year,” she said. “When the event was over, he told me this was one of the best things he has ever done. He died six months later.”

Mack and her son, Vince, also are a part of the parade. After her husband retired from the festivities, Vince acted as Santa Claus for the past three parades. Mack acts as Mrs. Claus and her three grandchildren will act as elves.

“The community loves it and it’s rewarding,” she said. “Anyone can come to the parade and sing songs along the way.”

Santa’s ride is The Burning Man art-car, blasting favorite holiday tunes in the parade. Later in the day, he will be on the porch at Rocking and Rolling shop in Telegraph Square, handing out candy canes from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Food Trucks from The Westside Pour House and Tahoe Tenderloin also will be available, including a canned food drive for FISH (Friends In Service Helping).

A gift basket composed by local merchants and restaurants will be up for raffle. This year’s jackpot item is an electric guitar from Carson Jewelry and LoanTickets can be purchased at Rocking and Rolling after Dec. 7, and the winner will be selected the day of the event.

Mack said she’s looking for more vendors and volunteers to help with children activities, and opportunities are open for veterans. She recommends the public to dress warm the day of the parade.

Mack can be reached at 775-885-2444 or at loftyexpressions@sbcglobal.net.