By SCOTT MIMS / Staff Writer

WESTOVER — The city of Westover has scheduled its annual Christmas Parade for Saturday, Dec. 14 beginning at 10 a.m.

For 2019, the parade will follow a new route approximately a half-mile east of the former route. The new route will start at Shelby County 55 and continue east on Old Highway 280 to Westover City Hall.

A portion of Shelby County 55 southbound from Shelby County 51 to Old Highway 280 will be closed to non-parade traffic.

“We’re looking forward to getting involved in celebrating the season,” said Westover Mayor Larry Riggins.

Clair Huddleston, news anchor with WBRC, will be this year’s grand marshal, and Kool FM 96.9 of Chelsea will announce parade entries. In keeping with tradition, Santa Claus can be seen at the parade’s end.

There is no entry fee for those who wish to participate in the parade. Staging of all entries will begin at 8:30 a.m., and participants are asked to arrive no later than 9:30 a.m. All staging will take place on Shelby County 55, with everyone entering from Shelby County 51. The parade will begin promptly at 10 a.m.

The suggested viewing place for parade spectators is along Old Highway 280 between Shelby County 55 and City Hall. Candy is allowed, but participants are asked not to bring any candy with peanuts.

Due to rain or snow being a factor the previous two years, an inclement weather date has been set this year for Thursday, Dec. 19 at 5 p.m.

“This is a most joyous season and I want to personally invite you and your family or group to attend,” Riggins said in a letter announcing the parade.

To watch videos of past parades or to download an entry form, visit the city’s website at Westoveralabama.org. For more information, contact Bonnie Meacham at 205-678-3375 ext. 1 or clerk@westoveralabama.org. Forms must be received by Dec. 7.