Valdese, NC- After 45 years of service in the Valdese Planning Department, beloved former director, Larry Johnson will be honored as the 2024 Christmas Parade Grand Marshal. The honor comes almost exactly a month from Johnson’s official retirement, his colleagues (and friends) in agreement that this will be a fitting send off to a man who has dedicated decades of his life to the town of Valdese. The annual Valdese Parade will take place Saturday, December 7th at 10:00 A.M, rain or shine, beginning at the Church Street and ending at Morgan Street. The community of Valdese looks forward to this annual celebration of the holiday season every year- led by the grand marshal and always ending with a special appearance from Santa Claus as the grand finale!
Larry Johnson had never set foot in Valdese before he began his career in town as a 25-year old young man, newly married to his wife, Dr. Trish Johnson. His position was Grant Administrator. Born and raised in Hickory, NC, Johnson graduated from Lenoir Rhyne University with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics. From his start date of May 16th, 1979, Johnson took on many responsibilities and witnessed town growth through multiple challenges, political climates and community development. Retiring in 2011, Johnson returned shortly after to lead the Planning Department part time. When asked what kept him in service to the town for so long, Johnson attributes it all to the people. “It’s been a journey, it really has, but the journey was only possible by these people here, the citizens of the Town of Valdese that I love so dearly.” Johnson recalled at the Town Council Meeting held November 4th.
Parade attendees are encouraged to stop by the Piedmont & Western Railroad Museum Open House from 9-12 pm, located downstairs at the Old Rock School. Come check out the largest railroad display in North Carolina! Later at that evening, catch a performance of “Miracle on 34th Street” presented by Old Colony Players in the newly renovated Old Rock School Auditorium. The show will begin at 7:30 pm and tickets can be purchased online at oldcolonyplayers.com or by calling 828-522-1150. Don’t forget to make lunch or dinner plans in Downtown Valdese, home to over 10 locally owned restaurants-enjoy a wide variety of cuisine from farm to table meats to authentic Mexican tacos. Cross a few off your holiday shopping list as your browse the unique shops along Main Street! Find someone for everyone- toys, apparel, art, home décor, gift cars, and more!
For more information on holiday events in Valdese, please go to visitvaldese.com or call Valdese Community Affairs at 828-879-2129.
