Gawler’s first Christmas Parade in 40 years has received widespread support and approval from the local community if the comments on Facebook are any guide.
Over 5,000 people attended the Villawood Gawler Christmas parade on Saturday 2nd November, with many also attending the after-parade event held at Apex Park to witness the lighting of the Rotary Club of Gawler Light Riverbank Christmas Display.
Daniel James Down said “I was blown away Tony. What the committee, sponsors, and supporters managed to achieve was so far from my own expectations. Magnificent”
His comments were echoed by Jan Abel who said “It was an amazing event; I’ve never seen so many people gathered together in Gawler. Thank you to everybody who contributed to make this such a fantastic success,” while Joan Price added “Community events like these are so important in our current times, good news for once!!!”
Josie Ireland expressed her wish that another parade be held in 2024 by commenting that it was “ … a fantastic Event. I was delighted to walk in the Gawler Christmas Parade, and I had such a fantabulous time, seeing such a huge crowd of happy people, who were so enthusiastic and having a great night. I am looking forward to 2024 pageant already.
Buoyed by the positive feedback, event co-ordinator Mr Tony Piccolo said that a community meeting would be held at 2 pm on Sunday 4th February 2024 in Café Nova, Murray Street, Gawler to discuss the 2023 parade and see if there is enough interest to hold the event in 2024.
“The community meeting will enable the 2023 parade to be reviewed so we can learn what we did well, and what could be done different in 2024 if the event goes ahead.”
“A decision as to whether another parade will be held in 2024, and how it could be managed.”
Mr Piccolo urged any individual, community group or small business interested in being part of a possible 2024 parade to attend the community meeting.
“Planning for a potential 2024 event would start immediately after the community meeting to ensure that it will be a bigger and better event.”
“ If anybody who was not involved in the 2023 parade or event more generally, but would like to be part of a 2024 event if it goes ahead, they should immediately express their interest immediately via email to light@parliament.sa.gov.au as there limited spots available.”
“While we would welcome new participants, stall holders and entertainers, preference will be given to those involved in the 2023 event.”