1 of 14

Pelham High School's marching band led the homecoming parade on Thursday, Sept. 19. (Reporter photo/Keith McCoy)

PELHAM – The number of people lining Bearden Road in anticipation of Pelham City Schools’ annual Panther Prowl Parade seems to grow year after year.

The district’s annual homecoming parade has become a beloved tradition in the city. Last year the Pelham City Schools Foundation added another aspect to the celebration with its Community Pep Rally.

Foundation president Jim Sumpter said the foundation was excited to be able to host the event again this year. The foundation intends to make a pep rally an annual homecoming tradition.

Onlookers enjoyed another fun-filled parade with approximately 26 groups participating from the high school, middle school and Pelham Parks and Recreation’s youth sports groups.

Directly following the parade, the Community Pep Rally took place at the Youth Football Field at Pelham City Park. The event included festivities, such as the Faculty Face-Off Dance and Lip Sync Battle.

Music at the pep rally was provided by DJ Fuzzy. Panther Spirit items were available for purchase and several food trucks – El Taco Truck, Papa Queso, Pazzo Big Slice Pizza, Dixieland Funnel Cakes and Snowie Shaved Ice – were in attendance. Proceeds from the pep rally benefit the Pelham City Schools Foundation.

At the pep rally, Mayor Gary Water thanked PCS for inviting city leaders to participate in the celebration. He also reminded everyone of the true intent of homecoming.

“Homecoming is not about winning or losing, it’s about school spirit and welcoming home old friends,” Waters said.

On Friday, Sept. 20, the Panthers faced off against the Chelsea Hornets, and the homecoming dance for PHS students was held at American Village on Saturday, Sept. 21.

To see more photos from this event, visit ShelbyCountyPhotos.com.

More Pelham Reporter

Voter turnout strong once again in Alabama, Shelby County

Donald Trump elected 47th President of the United States

Residents vote yes on local, statewide amendments

Shepherd elected to fifth term on Shelby County Commission