The holiday season in Encinitas is a time of joy, community, and tradition. At the heart of this festive spirit is the Encinitas Holiday Parade, a cherished event that brings neighbors together and celebrates the city’s vibrant history. This year’s parade will mark another milestone in a story shaped in no small part by the dedication of the Encinitas Coastal Rotary Club.
The Early Days of the Parade
The roots of the Encinitas Holiday Parade can be traced back to the 1950s. Earliest records date to 1957, though it may have started even earlier. Known as the “Saint Nick’s Parade,” the event was held on 3rd Street and quickly became a beloved tradition for residents. However, at some point, the parade was discontinued for reasons lost to history, leaving a void in the holiday celebrations.
A Revival in the 1980s
In 1985, the Encinitas/Leucadia Chamber of Commerce reignited the tradition with a nighttime parade held at 7 p.m. The following year, Patty Paige served as Grand Marshal, adding glamour to the festivities. However, 1986 also brought significant changes: Encinitas officially incorporated as a city in October, breaking away from county jurisdiction. With limited resources and manpower in its infancy, the city could not manage the growing demands of the Christmas Parade.
Rotary Steps In
This is where the Encinitas Coastal Rotary Club stepped up. Recognizing the parade’s importance to the community, the Club offered to provide the necessary volunteers to marshal the event. Their involvement ensured that the tradition could continue during these critical years, cementing Rotary’s role in the city’s cultural fabric.
From 1987 to 1989, the Chamber of Commerce organized the parade, but financial and logistical challenges led to its cancellation in 1990 and 1991. Determined to bring the event back, the Chamber approached the City Council in 1991 for funding. After budget deliberations, the Council approved funding with one condition: the city’s Community Services Department would oversee the parade, supported by a community parade committee that included Chamber representatives.
The City Takes the Lead
Planning for the new city-led parade began in 1992, culminating in the first official City of Encinitas Holiday Parade in 1993. Held on Coast Highway 101, this iteration of the parade has continued uninterrupted to the present day, growing in scope and popularity each year.
Rotary’s Ongoing Contribution
The Encinitas Coastal Rotary Club is vital to the parade’s history and success. From its early efforts to marshal the event during the city’s formative years to its ongoing involvement in community service, Rotary has consistently demonstrated its commitment to the Encinitas community. Rotary members work tirelessly behind the scenes to marshal parade participants, ensuring that all floats, clubs, bands, and other participants are lined up and ready to start on time. Their dedication helps maintain the seamless flow and organization of the event.
A Legacy of Community Spirit
The Encinitas Holiday Parade is more than just a festive event; it’s a testament to the power of community collaboration. The Encinitas Coastal Rotary Club’s willingness to step in during challenging times reflects the spirit of service that defines the parade and the city.
As the parade continues to light up Coast Highway 101 each holiday season, it reminds us of the shared history and enduring partnerships that make Encinitas such a special place. The Rotary Club’s contributions to this tradition ensure that the spirit of the holidays remains alive and well for generations to come.