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The Tuscaloosa News
Tuscaloosa marks 50 years of holiday parade tradition
One of West Alabama’s largest Christmas events will return to downtown Tuscaloosa. The 50th annual West Alabama Christmas Parade, organized by the Tuscaloosa County Park and Recreation Authority, will begin at 6:30 p.m. Dec. 7 in downtown Tuscaloosa. The parade will be preceded by a tree-lighting ceremony at 5:30 p.m. in front of the Tuscaloosa County Courthouse, 714 Greensboro Ave. For 50 years, the parade has drawn community groups, churches, schools, businesses and families from across West Alabama, becoming a longstanding holiday tradition. PARA has organized the parade since taking over coordination from the West Alabama Jaycees in 1976. University of Alabama football coach Paul W. “Bear” Bryant served as the first grand marshal, launching a tradition of honoring community members for their contributions, according to a news release. More: Where did 'Bear' Bryant eat? Visit his favorite spots | Exclusive “Reaching 50 years of the West Alabama Christmas Parade is a tremendous milestone for PARA and our community,” PARA CEO Brian Davis said in the release. “For generations, this parade has brought families, neighbors, businesses, and community organizations together to celebrate the holiday season," Davis said. "We look forward to making this anniversary year especially meaningful as we honor