On December 8th, Blythewood hosted its 28th annual Blythewood Christmas Parade. The parade focused on community, inviting Westwood’s marching band, ROTC, color guard, and baseball team to represent the Redhawk community.
For nearly three decades, the Blythewood Christmas Parade has been a beloved tradition that captures Christmas’s magic in the Midlands’ heart. The participation of local schools and families increases the parade’s festive atmosphere. Each year, the streets of Blythewood come alive with colorful floats, marching bands, and festive vehicles.
One of the standout features of the Blythewood Christmas Parade is the active participation of local organizations, each adding a unique touch to the celebration. From the energetic rhythms of the marching band to the disciplined presence of the JROTC, and the spirit of the baseball team and color guard, these groups play an important role in shaping the parade’s festive atmosphere and strengthening the ties within the Blythewood community.
The Redhawk Regiment Band, led and directed by Jenny VanTiem, was one of the most anticipated groups in the Christmas parade. Their lively performance of holiday classics filled the air with the joyous sounds of the season.The band’s presence was important not only because of their musical talent but also because it provided a sense of continuity and tradition.
Ms. VanTiem speaks about the band, why it was beneficial to the community, and how it was beneficial to the band students “It gives us exposure, it shows the creative side of what we do here, and it provides community support”
For multiple people in the crowd, hearing the band perform brought a feeling of nostalgia and excitement. Because COVID hit in 2020 and constant weather reports, the band has not marched in the Christmas parade since 2019. This was most of the students’ first year marching with Westwood.
The marching band’s musicians practiced tirelessly to perfect their music and marching, and their performance from the parade is a reflection of their dedication to their work. More than just playing tunes, they brought a sense of community pride to the event, showcasing the students’ hard work and fostering school spirit. Their music united everyone in attendance, creating an experience that lingers long after the parade ends.
Leading in front of the band, the Color Guard danced through the parade. Their presence is significant during the holiday season, as they represent the town’s pride in its heritage and serve as a reminder of the holidays’ deeper, more reflective aspects.
The Color Guard’s participation also brings an element of artistry to the parade. Their performances are graceful yet disciplined, showcasing the hard work and dedication they put into their craft. Their movements, often synchronized with the marching band, create a visually captivating experience, adding beauty to the overall parade.
The Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC) also played an integral role in the parade, marching with precision and discipline. The presence of the JROTC cadets was a powerful symbol of community service, leadership, and responsibility. Their involvement in the parade showed the values they uphold—respect, commitment, and teamwork—while also providing a positive example for younger generations.
The cadets’ participation offered a deeper layer of meaning to the parade, reminding everyone of the importance of discipline and duty, especially during a time when many reflect on the ideals of giving and service.
Their coordinated movements and firm uniforms add conventionality to the event, highlighting the pride they have in representing both their school and company. Colonel Bauldrick expresses his feelings on the battalion’s performance at the parade.
He states: “ I think it’s critical to what JROTC is about and what the community expects from JROTC. So participating in this event reflects the core values of respect, commitment, and teamwork and it is a composite of all those values and attributes.”
The Blythewood Christmas Parade is designed with families in mind. It’s a free event, making it accessible to everyone, and the festive atmosphere ensures there’s something for all ages to enjoy. Whether you’re a parent looking for a fun way to celebrate the season with your children or an individual wanting to embrace the holiday spirit, the parade offers a welcoming space for all to experience the joy of Christmas.
The parade is also a great opportunity to explore Blythewood’s local businesses, many of which offer holiday specials or participate in the event. Visitors can stroll through downtown Blythewood and enjoy the holiday decorations, shop for unique gifts, or grab a bite to eat at one of the local restaurants.
What makes the Blythewood Christmas Parade truly special is the sense of community it fosters. Local volunteers, businesses, and organizations all come together to make the event happen, and this collective effort helps strengthen the bonds within the town. The parade is not just an event, but a symbol of Blythewood’s commitment to coming together and celebrating the season’s joys.
