"Holidays on Route 66"

L.A.’s Second Oldest Parade in L.A.’s Oldest Suburbs
The 66th Northeast Los Angeles Holiday Parade will honor Northeast Los Angeles’ place on the historic Chicago to L.A. Mother Road with this year’s theme, “Holidays on Route 66.”
This year’s Grand Marshall is Actor and Activist Francesco Quinn. Best known for his role in Oliver Stone’s “Platoon,” Quinn has many film and television credits. The son of actor Anthony Quinn, Francesco Quinn and his wife Valentina have three foundations, which benefit children and muralists.
Several parade participants have been directly involved in the preservation of local Route 66 history.
Scott Piotrowski, a Glassell Park resident, is the Director of Route 66 Productions and the author of Finding the End of the Mother Road:Route 66 in Los Angeles County.
Amy Inouye will there, along with one of North Figueroa’s best known residents, Chicken Boy. Amy saved Chicken Boy from demolition on Route 66 Downtown and gave him a home on Route 66 in Highland Park. She is currently helping organize a project to Re-light the Historic Signs of Figueroa Street.
An annual favorite, Reel Cowboys is a non-profit Western Film and TV appreciation organization. Their participation honors the Arroyo Seco’s past as a location for many historic westerns and other films.
Santa Claus himself has confirmed his participation. This year, in keeping with the theme, he will be riding in a classic car.
Children are invited to bring along their letters to Santa for special delivery during the parade.
There will also be local marching bands, drill teams, dancers, musicians, floats and community representatives.
This annual volunteer-organized community parade honors the rich history of Northeast Los Angeles. It is also an opportunity for residents to come together in celebration of their community’s vibrant present. The parade is being presented by the Highland Park Chamber of Commerce with collaboration from Los Angeles City Councilmembers Ed Reyes (CD 1) and Jose Huizar (CD 14) as well as numerous local businesses and organizations.
Northeast Los Angeles Holiday Parade
Sunday, December 5, 1 p.m.
North Figueroa Street and Avenue 60, southbound to Sycamore Grove Park.
(from the Arroyo Seco Journal)