Photo Credits – Manchester Business Association.
Vermont Business Magazine The 14th Annual Manchester Holiday Lighted Tractor Parade took place on Saturday, December 7th, transforming Main and Bonnet Streets into a glowing winter wonderland. This festive event brought holiday cheer to the heart of downtown Manchester, as tractors and floats, beautifully adorned with twinkling lights and decorations, cruised through the streets.
The parade, featuring 32 stunning floats and displays, captivated a joyful crowd of spectators who lined the streets to enjoy the yuletide show. A special visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus brought extra joy to the event, delighting both children and adults alike. The weather could not have been more perfect, with a light snow shower creating a truly magical touch to the evening.
Congratulations to the winners, each of whom received a $300 cash prize from Dead River Company:
- Best Use of Holiday Lights – The Wilburton Destination Resort
- Best Non-Profit Presentation – Northshire Special Olympics & Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home
- Best Overall Float – Green Mountain Rock Climbing / Birchstone Property Management
A big thank you to our three guest judges: Greg Cutler of The Vermont Sales Group, Abigail Hunter (Miss Southern Vermont), and local resident Cynthia Kilburn.
"We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Mike Baker at Dead River Company, who has been a key part of organizing the parade for the past 14 years," said John Burnham, Executive Director of the Manchester Business Association. "His dedication and hard work have been integral to the parade's success, and he will be greatly missed by the community as he retires from his role at Dead River Company”, Burnham added “I’ve had the privilege of working with Mike these past four years, and it’s truly been an honor to collaborate with someone so committed to the local community. We cannot thank him enough for the many memories and joy he has helped bring to our area during the holiday season."
The event is made possible through the efforts of Dead River Company, the Manchester Business Association, the Town of Manchester, the Manchester Police Department, and the Manchester Volunteer Fire Department.
TP Judges & Organizers Photo – pictured from left to right: Judges – Greg Cutler, Abagail Hunter (Miss Southern VT), Cynthia Kilburn; Organizers: Mike Baker, Dead River Company and John Burnham, Manchester Business Association.
More Holiday Magic to Come
The festive spirit continues with more exciting events throughout December that will keep you in the holiday mood:
• Shires Holiday Inn Tours – Saturday, December 14th: Step inside Manchester’s charming inns and hotels, each beautifully decorated for the season. Take a self-guided tour of these festive properties and immerse yourself in their warm, holiday atmosphere.
• Santa Express – Saturday, December 14th & Sunday, December 15th: All aboard the Santa Express for a magical holiday train ride! This unforgettable experience takes families on a scenic journey through Vermont, complete with festive entertainment, hot cocoa, and a visit from Santa himself. It’s the perfect way to make memories this holiday season.
Stay Connected and Get in the Spirit
For a complete schedule of events and more information about all the holiday festivities happening throughout December, visit www.manchestermerriment.org. Join us as we celebrate the most wonderful time of the year in Manchester, VT—where holiday magic fills the streets and creates lasting memories for all!
Source: Manchester, VT – December 9, 2024 – Manchester Business Association
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