Chief Parks to Lead Annual Yule Parade
Los Angeles Police Chief Bernard C. Parks will be the grand marshal of the 30th annual Pacoima Christmas Parade, which begins at 9 this morning.
Begun in 1967 by the Pacoima Chamber of Commerce, the event has become a holiday tradition in the northeast Valley, attracting thousands of spectators each year.
The parade will be followed by a Holiday Festival at David Gonzales Park, featuring a crafts market and live music and dance groups.
The theme of this year’s parade is “Unity in the Community.” Both the parade and festival will include a multicultural array of home-grown talent, organizers said.
Parade participants will include school bands, color guards, folklorico groups and drill teams as well as equestrian groups, floats, decorated cars and even a U.S. Marine tank.
Santa Claus will make an appearance and rumor has it that several elves may come along as well, organizers said.
Politicians and officials participating in the parade include Rep. Howard Berman (D-Mission Hills), Assemblyman Tony Cardenas (D-Sylmar), Councilman Richard Alarcon, Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky and Foothill Division Police Capt. Ronald Bergmann.
The parade begins at 9 a.m. at Van Nuys Boulevard and Amboy Avenue and will conclude at David Gonzales Recreation Center, 10943 Herrick Ave.
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