SHAMOKIN - Registration is open for the annual Anthracite Heritage Festival of the Arts Parade, set for Friday, May 22, that will be the kickoff for the 10th anniversary festival weekend.
Organizers hope to make this year's parade the biggest and best in celebrating the anniversary year. Shamokin native and noted author, educator and former state high school wrestling champion William Welker is grand marshal.
This year's theme is "It's Electric," commemorating Thomas Edison's contributions to the city and region. It's encouraged that floats and vehicles be decorated in keeping with the theme as they travel down "Electric Avenue," the name given to Independence Street the day Thomas Edison lit up parts of Shamokin.
As always, the festival and parade also celebrates coal mining, alumni organizations, sports, history or any other part of life. Entries can include floats, antique cars, Jeeps, 4x4s, organizations and associations, bands, fitness groups, musicians, businesses, costumed walkers and pets.
Cash prizes will be given for award winners most decorative/creative, best dressed/costumes and best of show categories.
The parade will follow its traditional route, formation starting at 5 p.m. on Water Street and traveling down Independence and onto Market. Antique cars kick off the parade at 6 p.m., followed shortly thereafter by the remainder of the parade.
The accompanying registration form, which is also available at First National Bank, can be dropped off or mailed to the bank, attention Pam Burns, at 10 S. Market St., Shamokin 17872, or can be faxed to Burns at 570-644-0897.
For more information, call 570-648-9500.