Summertime in December: 33rd Annual Edisto Beach Christmas Parade

It was a beautiful afternoon last Saturday, December 9 when the 33rd 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 a parade celebration. This year, the theme was Summertime in December, and everyone was tasked with coming up with the best way to show that theme through their decorations. The weather adhered to the theme as well with a warm 70 degree day!

The 25+ participants made everyone’s day with their creativity and dedication to bringing smiles (and some candy) to those they passed along while parading down beautiful Palmetto Boulevard. Every participant put their all into making this parade one to remember. And of course, no Christmas Parade is complete without an appearance from Santa Claus himself!

Each year, one person is chosen for the honor of being the Grand Marshall to lead the parade. This year, we felt that our Martha Whetstone Service Award winners, Peter & Linda Beck, should have the honor. The Becks serve many local organizations, volunteer throughout the community, and are huge advocates and supporters of the Edisto Chamber.

Carrying the banner to start the parade this year were the 2023 Business of the Year Award winners, the Plantation Course at Edisto. A longtime supporter of the Edisto Chamber, the Plantation Course has been a significant stakeholder in the community for years.

Parade Winners

This year’s Parade Awards were sponsored by Ace Basin Lock and Key. Custom awards were made by local artist Patrick Reid O’Brien.

Awards are typically given to Best Float, Best on Wheels, and Best on Foot. We didn’t have many walking entries this year, so two awards were given in the Best on Wheels category.

Best Float: Animal Lovers of Edisto

Best on Wheels: EWMA SC-C Motorcycle Association

Best on Wheels: Susan Frick

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 joyous occasion that would not be possible without everyone working together. Congratulations to the 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.