The Shadow
CLIFTON FORGE Va (VR) – The spirit of the season lit up downtown Clifton Forge as crowds packed the streets for the annual Christmas Parade, a festive showcase of community pride, creative floats, and holiday tradition.
The parade stepped off with the Alleghany County Sheriff’s Office flag corps leading the way, followed by a sea of smiling spectators lining the route. A new Mustang sporting holiday lights and the festively adorned Woodlands Shuttle Bus set a cheerful tone as they rolled through the heart of town.
Marchers representing community groups kept the energy high, the Clifton Forge High School Alumni Association marched with snowmen in tow, and four- and five-member clogging troupes entertained along the route. Children and parents alike eagerly caught candy tossed by members of the Clifton Forge Fire Department’s Ladder 2 and engine truck, with the Clifton Forge Rescue Squad and Sharon Volunteer Fire Department close behind.
Other highlights included a tinsel-draped Chevrolet pickup, the spirited BPO Elks Lodge 1065, the Covington Fire Department’s Utility 3 truck, and the Dunlap Fire Department’s Pump 6. Local organizations like ACG Hospice, the YMCA, and Mountain Gateway Community College added their own creative flair, while the Grinch made several memorable appearances, once throwing candy from atop a Toyota pickup, and again, “jailed” by the
Alleghany Sheriff’s Office as part of a playful float.
“Well-decorated vehicles, creative floats, and the enthusiasm of every participant made this year’s parade truly special,” said Cindy Littleton, one of the evening’s judges and Executive Director at Clifton Forge School of the Arts.
Churches and civic groups turned out in force. Cornerstone Church heralded the season’s meaning, while Emmanuel Baptist Church wowed onlookers with a float that showered children with artificial snow. Clark Excavating’s float, featuring a light-covered excavator and a waving Grinch, was another crowd favorite.
The parade wrapped up in festive style as Santa Claus himself arrived, greeting delighted children with a hearty “Ho Ho Ho.”
Judges Cindy Littleton, Peter and Shanice Pistano, and Keith and Celeste Bagley deliberated to determine winners. Clarke Excavation took home honors for both Most Creative and Best Float, with the Emmanuel Baptist Church float recognized as the Best Religious Entry; Best Private Vehicle, Simply Flawless; Best Public Entry, Iron Gate; Best Dance Entry, A1 Dance Studio; Best Clogging Entry, Garlyndas; and Best Animal, Joey Disher with a rabbit.
Themed “Snowflakes and Mistletoe,” this year’s parade kept the wintry magic alive under twinkling lights and community camaraderie. By night’s end, Clifton Forge reinforced its place as a town that celebrates the holidays with heart, creativity, and a spirit of togetherness.
