J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center will host the 46th Annual Holiday Parade on Thursday, Dec. 1, at 3 p.m. This year’s theme is A Superheroes Holiday Parade, and the community is encouraged to dress in superhero clothing to support our JIRDC and community health care heroes.
"As we continue to navigate the impacts of a prolonged pandemic season, our annual parade presents a wonderful opportunity to share the joy and hope of this holiday season with our community once again," said JIRDC Facility Director Todd Drum. "We look forward to celebrating the promise of tomorrow as we honor the heroes of yesterday and today."
An annual tradition since 1975, the holiday parade returns after COVID-19 prevented it from happening the last two years.
The gates to JIRDC will close at 2:30 p.m. on Dec. 1, and all participants should be on campus no later than 2 p.m.
If interested in participating in the parade, please contact Alicia Lorenzo Wilson at alicia.lorenzo@dhhs.nc.gov or 828-608-6212. JIRDC must receive all parade entries by Nov. 14. All accepted applications will receive a confirmation packet with important parade day information.
Parade officials continue to work to provide a festive, easily accessible and safe family atmosphere for all attendees:
JIRDC will have reserved seating areas to provide a safe outdoor environment for residents. The community is asked to please respect safe social distancing from these areas. Please note, JIRDC reserves the right to cancel the parade based on the safety and well-being of the residents.
One way traffic will begin around the JIRDC’s perimeter road at noon. There will be people posted around the perimeter road to guide visitors to designated parking areas. Designated handicapped parking and areas where parking will not be allowed will be clearly marked. All visitors should follow the directions of the traffic control staff to ensure a smooth traffic pattern on campus.
The second entrance to the grounds will be closed at noon and the front entrance will be closed to all non-emergency traffic at 2:30 p.m. All parade participants will be receiving detailed information as to where to go when they arrive on campus.
As in the past, roadside parking will not be available on Enola Road. Parade officials ask that visitors take advantage of on-campus parking.
It is advised that parents make arrangements with their children on where to meet after the parade is over and that young children not be dropped off without parents being present.