An annual parade that runs through Port Jervis, NY, across the Delaware River, and through Matamoras, PA delighted spectators (and participants, too) beginning at 4 p.m. Sunday afternoon, December 4, 2023. The event, hosted by the Tri-State Chamber of Commerce annually, is a holiday favorite throughout the Tri-State region each year.
This year's parade, as always, included bands, holiday characters and personalities (including Santa), fully adorned fire, police, ambulance vehicles (and volunteers and personnel), community, church, civic,0 and school groups all attired in various holiday themed decor. Even animals participate in this spirited holiday parade.
The parade is part of many holiday events that happen in the Tri-State region each November into December months. They are aimed a bringing fun and spirit to the area, as well as encouraging support to local businesses that are there for their community throughout each year.
This parade is hosted by the T.S. Chamber of Commerce, under the direction of Amador Laput (President), Paul Brislin (Treasurer), and Ulana Emerson and Joe Neenan (parade committee co-chairs). Other members of the Chamber include Linda Hannigan and Debbie Valentine. It was Laput who served as emcee and announcer for the parade, and Valentine who served dozens of boxes of donuts and cups of hot chocolate at the Matamoras firehouse following the parade.
Port Jervis Mayor Kelly Decker, who is completing a decade of service as mayor, was this year's Grand Marshal of the parade.
Awards were presented in five categories. This year's winners were:
Most Spirited Animal Participation - Edward Jones
Best Musical Group - Broome Street Band
Most Original 1st Place - United Methodist Church of Matamoras
Most Original 2nd Place - Port Jervis Volunteer Ambulance
Best Overall - Cub Scout Pack 1071
Happy Holidays, everyone!
