Greenfield Christmas parade postponed due to weather

(Courtesy of Ron Coffey)

With an eye on the winter storm forecast for this weekend, and following consultation with Greenfield officials, the Christmas parade sponsored by Fraternal Order of Eagles and the lighting of the courthouse by Operation Light Up City Hall are being postponed one week until Saturday, Dec. 14. The parade will also have a new starting time, commencing at 5:30 p.m. rather than at 6 o'clock.

"We realize this isn't an ideal situation for everyone, but in view of the National Weather Service forecast of sleet and snow Friday followed by even more snow Friday night, our first concern is the safety of our citizens," said Ron Coffey, Greenfield city manager. "I met with Tim Hester, chief of police, who contacted Mike Stafford, the Eagles parade chairman, and the Operation Light Up City Hall folks. No one wants a situation where people might be endangered by the snow, ice or very cold weather that is forecast, and thus the decision was made to postpone the parade for a week."

The sponsors realize that some of the parade participants may have other commitments, and they are trying to be sensitive about other events already scheduled on the 14th. "The time of the parade was moved up to 5:30 p.m. to help avoid any conflict with the Lions Club's program, 'A Village Herald Christmas,' scheduled at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 14 at the McClain auditorium," Coffey said. "Hopefully this will allow time for anyone who wishes to attend both events, or some other event that evening.

"We hope everyone will understand the reasons for the postponement, and if possible that they will be able to join us on Dec. 14 for the parade and the lighting of the courthouse," Coffey said.