The Bryant Area Chamber of Commerce will continue the long standing tradition of the annual Fall Fest Parade on[more] Oct. 6, but on a different route.
The city was informed by the State Highway Department that parades may no longer be held on Reynolds Road. The new route this year will be on Woodland Park Road from its intersection with Boswell to Boone, right on Boone then left into Bishop Park, according to Megan Elms of Saline Memorial Hospital, parade chairman. The parade, sponsored by Arvest Bank, will begin at 10 a.m.
It will be a motorized parade. “We are very excited about the 25th anniversary of Fall Fest and being able to tie in the ‘Silver Anniversary’ theme for the parade,” said Elms. “We encourage all community members to participate. Having the new route this year allows us to do a motorized parade, so bring out your floats, trucks, and trailers.”
Cash prizes are awarded in three categories — business & organization, school, and church. Each category has a $50 first prize and $25 second.
The parade can be seen from the park or from Woodland Park. No parking along the road will be allowed as that will block parade viewing. Those who want to watch are invited to bring folding chairs to set up or use bleachers from the park that will be moved to face the road.
“We have heard from community people throughout the years that Fall Fest gives them a sense of community,” noted Rae Ann Fields, executive director of the Chamber. “The event brings together schools, businesses, churches, political candidates – all aspects of the community into one big celebration. We are focused on preserving that hometown feel especially this year as we celebrate 25 years.
“We have had new residents tell us the deciding factor in choosing Bryant as a place to live was the wonderful experience they had at Fall Fest,” she added.
Contact Megan Elms at 501-776-6746 or the Chamber staff at 847-4792 for information or a registration form for the parade. Chamber staff can also provided exhibit booth, food vendor booth and contest entry forms.
