HAYC3 believes that art and collaboration help build stronger communities and create a sense of place. Light can symbolize different things to different people, and HAYC3’s fourth-annual whimsical Illuminated Parade, with the addition of “Glow of Gratitude” Lanterns, will show how light brings inclusion and togetherness to a community. The parade takes place on Saturday, September 29, at the conclusion of a day full of Hoosick Hullabaloo activities.
“Our first three lighted parades were very successful and great fun for members of our community,” said Aelish Nealon, HAYC3’s Executive Director, “and that’s why we’re continuing the tradition this year with hopes of having even more glowing creations.” Community members, families, individuals, and organizations—whether riding, walking, or observing—are encouraged to participate at no cost, although registering is required on the website. Bikes, trucks, wagons, unicycles—if you can ride it or walk with it covered in lights, you can be in the parade.
This year, HAYC3 will have awards for: Most Creative Vehicle/Float, Most Creative Individual Ride, Most Creative Illuminated Person, and Most Original Overall. To participate in the parade with a vehicle, please register at HAYC3.org/hoosick-is-illuminated.
“Light can brighten our lives in other ways, too,” says Nealon. HAYC3 is pleased to be adding “Glow of Gratitude”Lanterns this year, in partnership with the Healers from Here Relay for Life team, in its 18th year of promoting cancer awareness and raising funds for the American Cancer Society. “We wanted a way for the community to express gratitude for the moments and people who enrich their lives, or to remember the spirit of those who are missed, or to give hope and good wishes for those in need,” Nealon adds. “And what better way than to give community members an opportunity to decorate their own lantern, and then join the parade or be a spectator with their glowing “gratitude” creations. Lanterns will be lit with provided battery-operated votive candles. Following the parade, lanterns can be hung in the park where everyone can enjoy the “glow” of the community’s compassion for one another.
Lanterns are $10 each and can be purchased on Friday, September 28 (6-7 pm) or on Saturday, September 29 (3-6 pm) at HAYC3 Armory. A decorating station with supplies will be available. Proceeds from the “Glow of Gratitude” lantern sales will benefit the American Cancer Society and HAYC3 programming.
The Illuminated Parade takes to the streets at 7:30 pm with the lineup for participants beginning at 7 pm from Wood Memorial Park, proceeding down Main Street and continuing onto John and Church Streets, before returning to the park for the hanging of the “Glow of Gratitude” lanterns.
For complete information and to register (free) to be in the parade, please visit HAYC3.org/hoosick-is-illuminated. If you have questions, please visit us on Facebook (facebook.com/HAYC3NY) or call 518-686-9050. A complete schedule of all of the Hoosick Hullabaloo events can also be obtained from these contacts.