RIO LINDA, CA (MPG) - Get ready for an exciting evening of holiday cheer at the ninth annual Christmas Parade in Rio Linda on Saturday, Dec. 14.

The festivities will kick off at 6 p.m. Dec. 14 with the much-anticipated lighting of the community Christmas Tree at Troy Graham Park, a small triangle strip located at Front Street and M Street. This marks the beginning of a fun-filled night as the parade winds its way down M Street, starting at W. 2nd Street and ending at Curved Bridge Road. Be sure to gather around the judges’ stand near the community Christmas Tree to catch the festive magic up close.

According to parade organizer Tabitha Worth, the event has become a beloved tradition in Rio Linda and was first inspired in 2016 when local resident John Todd suggested creating a Christmas parade similar to Placerville’s parade. He envisioned it as a way to bring joy to Rio Linda and he encouraged Worth to take on the responsibility of organizing it.

Thanks to her dedication and the support of the Rio Linda/Elverta Country Faire, which helps raise funds and gather sponsors for the parade, the parade has grown into a true community event. The Christmas Light Parade is even in the process of becoming its own nonprofit organization, awaiting IRS approval, according to Worth.

“I work hard on this event about four months out of the year. I start working on the street closure permit in May/June. For me, I love to give back. I love to help bring a smile to brighten a day. Some families can't do much, but with this free event so close to home, it can brighten someone's day,” Worth said.

This year, the parade promises to be just as magical as years before, with residents and visitors coming together to celebrate the season. The intricately decorated floats will travel through the heart of Rio Linda, spreading holiday joy. The parade is an opportunity to enjoy the hard work of local participants while getting into the holiday spirit.

One of the best parts about this parade is that it brings the community together, according to Worth.

“Our community looks forward to this event because it lights the town up, literally. Families come from near and far to set up and tailgate before watching their friends, family, and neighbors drive their beautiful floats down the street,” Worth said. “Seeing all the hard work that the parade participants put into their floats to help spread some cheer is amazing. Plus, it is close to home...for those that live in the community, they do not have to travel very far. It is something positive that our community brings and shares with each other.”

Why should Rio Linda residents join in on the fun?

“This annual Christmas Light Parade is special because it is something that our little town can be proud of and share with all,” Worth said. “It brings a smile to everyone's face. We are able to highlight and share our clubs, organizations, businesses and families with everyone. It is a free event that our volunteers work so hard on.”

“The parade is free to attend, and it offers something for everyone, from the excitement of the floats to the warm community atmosphere,” Worth added.

According to Worth, attendees are asked to help keep Rio Linda beautiful by bringing a trash bag and taking any trash they create with them.

The deadline to enter the parade is Monday, Dec. 9, and there will be a mandatory meeting at 6 p.m. Dec. 9 at the Community Center, located at 810 Oak Lane.

Note that M Street will be closed from 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. on parade day, so be sure to plan alternative routes.

For more information, visit the official parade website at www.rleChristmasParade.com.