Holidays

On an overcast, slightly chilly Saturday afternoon, the 32nd Annual Edisto Beach Christmas Parade took place. There truly is no greater way to feel the Christmas spirit than to kick off the merry season with this celebration.The theme this year was Christmas Tunes Across the Dunes where everyone was tasked with decorating to their favorite Christmas song.

The roughly 25 participants made everyone’s day with their creativity and dedication to bringing smiles to all they passed along our beloved Palmetto Boulevard. Every participant put their all into making this parade one to remember. From dancing Loggerhead Turtles to locals rockin’ around the Christmas tree, this event was nothing short of magical for everyone of all ages. And no Christmas Parade is complete without an appearance from Santa Clause himself! 

Every year, one person is chosen for the honor of being the Grand Marshall to lead the parade. This year, there was no better choice than our former, dedicated UPS driver Tony Savage. Tony recently retired and is loved by anyone who crossed paths with him during his 17 years of service to Edisto. His heart of gold and passion for his work easily made him an island icon through the many years he served.

From all of us of Edisto, we thank you dearly, Tony. We wish you and your beautiful family nothing but the best during your retirement. You all will always hold a special place in our hearts. 

Carrying the banner to start the parade this year were the 2022 Business of the Year award winners, Katherine and Brandon Rushing! As the owners of Ella & Ollies as well as The Briny Swine, these two never shy away from giving back to the community. Being members of the Chamber since 2016, they have always kept the best interest of our island is at heart, continuously supporting other local businesses, making sure their restaurants serve nothing but the best and freshest ingredients. Read more about our 2022 Business of the Year recipients here.  

Now, to recap the winners of the 32nd Annual Edisto Beach Christmas Parade! This year had so many incredible participants that it was immensely difficult to choose who won each category. The awards go to the best float, best on wheels, best on foot, and best overall. The winners of each as well as runner-ups are listed below: 

Parade Winners

Best Overall: The Good Samaritan Clinic of Edisto Island

Best Float:

EB Loggerhead Turtle Project

Best Wheels:

Marsh Hen Mill

Best on Foot:

JMK’s Rowdy Riders 

RUNNERS-UP

Best Overall (runner-up):

Robby Harrison and John Gates

Best Float (runner-up):

Animal Lovers of Edisto Canine Rescue 

Best Wheels (runner-up):

Charleston County Sheriff’s Office 

Best on Foot (runner-up):

The Three Wiser Women 

A huge thank-you to everyone that took the time to participate in this year’s parade, whether you were in the line-up or cheering from the sidelines. Every year, it is a very joyous occasion that would not be possible without everyone working with one another. This goes to show how truly special our island’s community is and how true magic can happen when we all come together. Congratulations to our well deserved winners, we look forward to seeing you again next year! In the meantime, we wish everyone a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year. 

Celebrating 30 Years: An Edisto Beach Blockbuster Christmas

The Edisto Beach Christmas Parade was a very merry kickoff to the holiday season. The parade theme was Celebrating 30 Years: An Edisto Beach Blockbuster Christmas and the nearly twenty parade participants did not disappoint! Featuring a variety of Christmas movie classics and an appearance from Santa Claus, it was fun for all ages and certainly sparked the holiday spirit!

Christmas Parade Grand Marshal

Each year a Grand Marshal is chosen to lead the parade. This year’s Grand Marshal was Ms. Francine Morrison. She was chosen not only for her vast involvement in the Edisto Community, but also because she is an educator in a year where they should be celebrated more than ever.

Bio – Francine Morrison

Christmas Parade Awards

The parade included a variety of floats from local businesses, non-profit organizations, and motor vehicle participants. Along with spreading cheer, there was a friendly competition for “a major award” amongst the participants.

Winners in each category included are below.

Businesses:

            First Place: Edisto Beach State Park

            Second Place: The Happie Truck

            Honorable mention: Island Septic Systems

Non-Profit Organizations:

            1^st Place: Edisto Island Youth Recreation

Motor Vehicles, Carts, Bikes:

            1^st Place: Robby Harrison

            2^nd Place: Robbie Gaskins

            Honorable Mention: GWRRA Chapter

It was all smiles down Palmetto Boulevard! After an unprecedented year, the Christmas Parade brought the Edisto community together, in a safe and socially distanced manner of course, and provided a much needed sense of normalcy during this holiday season!

Thank you to all the participants and those who joined us! We look forward to seeing you next year and wish you a safe and happy holiday!