PARROTTSVILLE-The annual Parrottsville Christmas parade will be Saturday, Dec. 5, beginning at 2:00 p.m. Staging for the event will start at noon.

This year's event is organized by Parrottsville Ruritan Club.

Organizers of the event encourage all East Tennessee businesses, groups, bands, organizations, and individuals with horses and ATV's to submit applications to participate in the parade.

Organizations are available at Parrottsville City Hall, other Parrottsville businesses, Goddard Real Estate & Auction, and online at www.parrottsvillechristmas.com.

This is Parrottsville Ruritan's first year to organize the parade. The club is currently working with Parrottsville Elementary School on a canned food drive. They also are coordinating a visit by Santa Claus and a live radio broadcast of the parade on WNPC.

According to Parrottsville Ruritan President Kevin Flint, "Our club has really embraced working on this parade. Club members Steve Balch and John Wilson have agreed to be radio announcers, Otha Rolen personally knows Santa and has talked him into staying longer in Parrottsville. I think people will be pleased with our event."

Serving with Flint on the parade committee are Fred Beaver, Mike Johnson, and Derrick Woods.

For more information, call 865-919-2338 or 423-623-9380.