The 49th annual holiday parade at the J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center (JIRDC) will begin at 3 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025. Residents and staff invite the entire community to enjoy the parade as the center celebrates "Storybook Holiday Parade." Marching bands, fire trucks, and floats are expected to participate as well as a special appearance by Santa Claus from the North Pole.
This year, our Grand Marshal is Kyle Petty, a former NASCAR driver, racing analyst, author, musician, and philanthropist. He also provides race coverage for NBC, hosts a digital series that airs on Motorsports on NBC YouTube Channel, and the Peacock app. In addition to his media talents, he hosts a primetime series, "Dinner Drive with Kyle Petty." Some of Kyle’s time is devoted to his nonprofit, Victory Junction. Victory Junction provides life-changing camping experiences for children with chronic and serious medical illnesses in North Carolina. Kyle is also the son of NASCAR Cup Champion and NASCAR Hall of Famer Richard "The King" Petty.
JIRDC has designated a "Quiet Zone" for guests, including individuals with disabilities and anyone who may be sensitive to loud sounds. This area will be clearly marked with lime green tape to help visitors easily identify it. The "Quiet Zone" will be located just past the circle drive, between the Ninja Turtles and 101 Dalmatian displays. Thank you for joining us in making this space a welcoming and peaceful spot for everyone.
JIRDC is excited to welcome back visitors for the annual holiday parade. Following the parade, the festive holiday light display will begin, and the displays will be illuminated daily from 5:30 to 10 p.m. until Dec. 31. We hope you can join us for "Storybook Holiday Parade."
Parade officials are committed to creating a festive, accessible, and safe environment for all attendees. One-way traffic will begin around the perimeter road of the center at noon. Personnel will be stationed along Perimeter Road to guide visitors to parking areas. Designated handicapped parking spaces will be marked, and areas where parking is prohibited will also be clearly indicated. All visitors are required to follow the directions of the traffic control personnel to maintain a smooth traffic flow on the Center's campus.
The second entrance to the grounds will close at noon, while the front entrance will be restricted to non-emergency traffic starting at 2:30 p.m. Parade participants will receive detailed instructions upon their arrival on campus regarding where to go. As in previous years, roadside parking will not be permitted on Enola Road. Parade officials encourage all visitors to utilize the available on-campus parking. Due to construction on the campus of J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center, there will be limited parking for all guests.
Parents are encouraged to discuss meeting arrangements with their children after the parade and to ensure that young children are not dropped off without an adult present.
If interested in participating in the J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center Parade, please email jirdc.parade@dhhs.nc.gov for more information.
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JIRDC reserves the right to cancel the parade based on the safety and well-being of the residents we serve. J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center is a State operated facility serving people with intellectual disabilities within the NCDHHS Division of State Operated Healthcare Facilities.