Christmas Holiday Parade
Updated: September 16, 2020
For 64 years, The Jacksonville Onslow Chamber of Commerce Christmas Holiday Parade has kicked off the holiday season in Onslow County, making it one of Eastern North Carolina’s most beloved events. However after consultation with city leaders and the Chamber’s Parade Committee it was decided not to hold the parade this year because the safety of the spectators, participants and volunteers is of the upmost importance to the chamber and the city of Jacksonville. Karen Salefsky the Chamber’s Parade Committee Chair since 1985 states, “This was not an easy decision. We waited as long as we possibly could, considering the overall safety of all participants and spectators, before deciding to cancel this signature event of the Chamber that means so much to our region. However, this does not mean that we will not be celebrating the Christmas Holiday season in style for 2020. We have just begun discussions about having a Holiday Decorating Contest for area businesses, that would provide an opportunity for all of our Chamber members to showcase their best and “Deck the Halls” with a very special display of their Christmas Holiday spirit. We envision collecting nominations similar to how the Jacksonville Environmental and Appearance Advisory Committee does for their Holiday Home Decorating Contest and would invite residents to vote for their favorite. As we finalize the details of the contest they will be announced.”
December 15, 2020
Winners Announced in the Chamber’s First-Ever Holiday Decorating Contest
The Jacksonville·Onslow Chamber of Commerce and Marine Federal Credit Union hosted a Holiday Decorating Contest for Onslow County Businesses. 1st place went to Dance Factory of Richlands, 2nd place was awarded to Zing Zumm Children’s Museum of Jacksonville and the 3rd place winner was Yo-Brez Frozen Dessert Bar.
Chamber President Laurette Leagon along with Todd Sammons, CFO for Marine Federal Credit Union, made the presentations on Thursday, December 10,2020. In addition to a beautiful gift basket and a sign showing their designation, cash prizes were also awarded. Dance Factory of Richlands received $1,000. Owner Brittany Forrester said “I am thankful for the money. We had to shut down for six months because of the Pandemic, so this will certainly come in handy.” Zing Zumm Children’s Museum of Jacksonville received $500. Executive Director Samantha Plocica said “We plan on using the cash prize to help fund our new program, Play for All! This is a special program that will support one night a month for exceptional children to gather and play.” The 3rd place prize was $250 and that went to Yo-Brez Frozen Dessert Bar. Stacy Welsh thanked all their loyal customers for their votes.
