Edisto Beach 32nd Annual Christmas Parade

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.

Mayor Crawford Moore, and wife Janice
Councilman Bob Renner, and wife Stephanie
Councilman Jerome Kizer, and wife Marie
Councilman Jay Watts

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.

“I was born and raised in Adams Run, so Edisto has always been a part of my life. Through my teenage years and early twenties I came with friends just about every weekend. When I turned 19, I started working for the United Parcel Service part-time, then when I turned 21, I started driving and delivering for the company. One of my first runs to deliver on was Edisto which I quickly fell in love with because of my friends and wonderful customers that were over there. In 1995, I married the love of my life, my beautiful wife Ann. Four years later, God blessed us with our amazing daughter Ansley. Over the next couple years I covered different runs hoping Edisto would one day come available to me, then 17 years ago it happened. Over the last 17 years this Island has been so good to me and my family I could never repay you all for letting me into your homes and lives. I have truly been blessed to be here as your delivery driver and blessed to have so many friends who I think of as family. Thank you all for a wonderful ride, you are one amazing community.

Your UPS Driver,
Tony

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. 

2022 Business of the Year Award recipients Katherine and Brandon Rushing

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 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.