Courtesy of The Ballston Spa Business & Professional Association
The Village of Ballston Spa is set to transform into a winter wonderland this December. The Ballston Spa Business & Professional Association (BSBPA) has invited the community to celebrate the annual Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting on Friday, December 6, along Milton Avenue.
A beloved hometown tradition, this holiday parade draws thousands of spectators to enjoy the festive floats, fire trucks, and community groups that illuminate the village. The parade steps off at 6:30 p.m. from the north end of Milton Avenue and continues down to West High Street.
Following the parade, Santa and Mrs. Claus will make their grand entrance on an Eagle-Matt Lee Fire Company truck to light the Christmas tree in Wiswall Park.
This year’s parade also supports the Toys for Tots campaign in partnership with the Ballston Spa Community Emergency Corps, Saratoga County Sheriff’s Department, and U.S. Marine Corps. Volunteers will be collecting donations of new, unwrapped toys along the parade route and at Wiswall Park during the tree lighting.
“The holiday spirit fills the village the night of the parade– and nothing compares to Santa lighting the tree from the firetruck at the parade’s end,” says Dana Womer, Holiday Parade Committee chair.
In addition to the parade, BSBPA’s First Friday will take place on December 6. Many shops and businesses along the route will be open, offering festive treats and activities like hot cocoa, chowder, and special holiday giveaways.