Huntsville Christmas Parade bringing spirit of ‘Toyland’ with June Carter and Johnny

HUNTSVILLE — A Rocket City holiday tradition is returning for its 10th year.

The Huntsville Christmas Parade, scheduled for Dec. 3, will feature more than 80 quality floats, animals, and marching bands.

This year’s theme is “Christmas in Toyland.” It was selected in a poll in July on the parade’s Meta page.

“Everyone remembers a favorite childhood toy, and this year’s Christmas parade will celebrate the magic of toys, youthful imagination, and holiday traditions,” said Mayor Tommy Battle. “We look forward to this annual event when our families can gather and celebrate the joys of the season.”

This year’s parade will feature an unusual twist.

The grand marshals are two babies – June Carter Clark and Johnny Cash Davis. The two babies made headlines after being born April 10 at Huntsville Hospital to parents unaware of the coincidence. Hospital staff eventually pointed it out to the couples who then met.

June and Johnny will be accompanied by their parents at the head of the parade.

Coincidentally, this is the 50th anniversary of the Von Braun Center and the first concert in the arena was performed by none other than the “Man in Black” – Johnny Cash.

Organizers also said the parade would not be possible without the support from the Von Braun Civic Center, Mix 96.9, and Bank Independent, the presenting sponsor.

“As a local community bank, we were founded with the intention to create a culture of service,” said Nick Rockhill, Bank Independent vice pPresident and sales officer. “We remain committed to investing in opportunities that make a positive difference and bring our community together.

“We are proud to support the Huntsville Christmas Parade again this year and serve our community alongside Mix 96.9 and the Von Braun Center.”