If you ever wonder about the perks of living in a small town I can distill the draw to Los Gatos down to 2 words: Christmas. Parade.The annual Los Gatos Christmas Parade is always on the 1st Saturday of December and for me it is a much better kickoff to the holiday season than Black Friday (sorry to diehard shoppers). Everyone in town is either "in" or watching the parade! Being "in" the parade is pretty much a "rite of passage."
My kids have been in the parade for Indian Princesses, Karate, Swim Team, Scouts, Cross Country, LG Rowing Club, "Zoom" (a musical group led by Julia Hatch & Sherry Curtis), etc. We've even had a car and probably a few wagons that have been "in" the parade! Plus, our driveway is ideal parking for the end of the parade route.
The parade has been running strong for over 50 years and has some pretty classic participants. The Stanford Marching Band makes an appearance. For anyone not familiar with the Stanford Marching Band they are not your Mother's Marching Band; their M.O. is unorthodox and outrageous! The Italian Squash Drill Team is always a favorite (see picture) as well as some pro BMX bikers who can do midair flips of a float/ramp! And Santa Claus always brings up the rear.
Yes, the Los Gatos Christmas Parade is one of the best community events around! And it's a perfect way to kickoff the holiday season!
