New date for parade

With Christmas looming upon us quickly, the Stratford Business Association has begun planning the 2015 Stratford Christmas Parade.

The committee have decided on a close to home theme; and "Naki Christmas" floats will be judged on their creativity and the use of amber and black.

The parade will be held on Saturday December 5 at 12pm. This is a change from previous years, when the parade was held on a Friday evening before the Stratford A&P Show on the weekend.

The decision to change the timing was based on community feedback, with many saying November was too early for the Christmas parade, and local businesses expressing a preference for the parade taking place on a Saturday afternoon.

The parade will begin at 12pm. Judging of the floats will be held at the War Memorial carpark prior to the parade. Those wishing to be judged, and be in the running to win a cash prize please ensure your float is at the War Memorial carpark by 11am.

The prizes are as follows; 1st - $300, 2nd - $200, 3rd - $100 and Best School $150.

The Stratford Business Association encourages all businesses, individuals, schools and community groups to get involved. Registration forms will be available from the Stratford District Council. If you would like a form, or have any further questions, please contact Lauren at the Stratford District Council on (06) 765-6099 or email Lauren Darrah at ldarrah@stratford.govt.nz.

Other Christmas promotions the SBA are working on are the Christmas Carols event and Santa's Cave. The fifth annual Christmas Carols will be held in conjunction with the Taranaki Pioneer Village. This year, the carols will be held on the Village Green at Pioneer Village on Friday, December 18. Santa will also be present in December, making an appearance at Santa's Cave.