The Manhattan Spirit of the Holidays Lighted Parade is really all about the community getting together, having a great evening, and helping the Flint Hills Breadbasket.
The Spirit of the Holidays Lighted Parade is held yearly on the first Friday in December. Also known as the Mayor's Holiday Parade, the route begins in Downtown Manhattan and weaves its way from the Manhattan Town Center, down Poyntz Ave, past the Manhattan City Park, and then the parade cruises down Moro and ends in Aggieville.
This parade is so much fun! All participants must follow the entry rules, which means there is no shortage of lights, plus there is also a competition, and who doesn't love a little friendly holiday competition! Every float must have lights, and let me tell you, these entries get VERY creative!
It is all in good fun, and the awards are given out by the parade committee! There are six awards in total: Best in Show/Mayor's Trophy, Best Use of Lights, Spirit of the Breadbasket, Best Youth Float, Best Walking Group, and Best Bicycle Entry!
One of my favorites in the parade is The Pride of Wildcat Land, the K-State Marching Band! As "The Pride" marches its way down the parade route, you can guarantee it will be playing KSU favorites. Most years, The Pride is followed by the Kansas State University Football semi, staff, and occasionally players, depending on the football schedule.
The Manhattan, KS Spirit of the Holidays Lighted Parade is truly about our community getting together and having a great evening. The best part is that the parade also benefits the Flint Hills Breadbasket; attendees can bring donations, and one of the first groups through is part of the breadbasket and will take any donations you have to offer.
After the parade, my favorite stop is The Miracle on Moro in The Hi Lo!
