Raleigh Christmas Parade to modify it's route

A Raleigh tradition is about to get a new direction. The 62nd annual parade will be taking a right turn that has not been done in the past. It will follow the usual route up Hillsborough Street towards the Capital, then take a right onto Salisbury, a left onto Morgan Street. Finally, it will take a right onto the newly opened Fayettville Street and travel for 3 blocks on Fayettville St.

The event will be the first major parade on the newly opened street. Many city officials have touted the wide road as a perfect place for such an event. Additionally, the parade will broadcast live on WRAL TV at 9:30am.

With as many as 25 marching bands, 40 floats, and 50 other groups, this parade is considered a local tradition that brings as many as 250,000 viewers considering those who trek downtown for this event and those who view in on TV. The Greater Raleigh Merchands Association, who has sponsored this event since its inception, will also be hosting a VinterFest at Moore Square after the parade. Addmission to the WinterFest is $5 and the proceeds will benefit high school musicians. Many of the feathured artists will preform.

For more information about the parade, visit the Merchants web site at www.RaleighChristmasParade.org

Steven W. Nelson, a local real estate agent for Keller Williams speaks highly of the event as a way for the community to come together to "enjoy and embrase the sentiments of the holiday season."