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Rick Drew Holiday Parade brings holiday cheer and fun

Writer's picture: Sharon E. SiegelSharon E. Siegel

Updated: Dec 7, 2021

Revised 12/6/21 to include winners of this year's parade.


The Tri-State Chamber of Commerce 49th Annual Rick Drew Holiday Parade kicked off beneath sunny skies on December 5, 2021. It was a perfect day for a parade, both weatherwise and in the tradition and spirit carried for Tri-State regional fun!


The procession of holiday-themed marchers, floats, bands, and vehicles made their way from Port Jervis' City Hall through the city's downtown, across the Mid-Delaware Bridge into PA, and along Matamoras' Pennsylvania Avenue to Matamoras firehouse. Awards were presented, refreshments served, and families had a chance to visit and meet with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the firehouse.


"We had a slightly smaller turnout for our parade, but no less enthusiastic! With cooperation from the Port Jervis City Government, we returned to the original route bringing the parade back through Front Street!" said Tom McCarron, following award presentations. "Thanks to Marketing Director Ginny Schooten, we were able to have a special $500.00 gift card as an award for the Best Overall Holiday group, sponsored by the Foundry 42. The Winners were the VFW Naval Ship!"


This year's parade honored healthcare workers from Bon Secours Community Hospital as Grand Marshal of the parade, for their continuing Covid-19 efforts and dedication to the community. Master of Ceremonies Tom McCarron and the Drew Family of judges presented certificates at a Pennsylvania Avenue reviewing stand, where groups and participants were announced as they passed by. Many of the units performed or threw candy along the parade route as they entertained spectators and enjoyed the day out together.


The parade is held annually for seasonal fun and celebration of the holiday season. Rick Drew, for the whom the parade has been renamed over past decades, was a fun-loving, lifelong community resident who loved and hosted parades throughout his lifetime. This included as a child in bringing neighborhood children (and their wagons and homemade floats) to march together in parades. Drew worked hard in continuing that tradition and holiday spirit with the Tri-State Chamber of Commerce parade throughout his adulthood.


Rick Drew Holiday Parade Winners 2021

Broome Street Traveling All Stars (Most Spirited Animal Participation) and Best Appearing Musical Unit)


Sparrowbush Fire Department (Most Original)


Port Jervis Girl Scouts (Largest Participation)


Port Jervis Neversink Engine Company (Best Decorated Emergency Vehicle)


Cheer Factory, PA (Best Appearing Walking Group


P.J. (Red Raiders) Mighty Mites (Best Appearing Musical Holiday Float)


PJ Girl Scouts (Best All Around Holiday Theme)


VFW Naval Ship (Best Overall)


Happy Holidays, everyone!






































































































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