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27th annual Parade of Lights hits Cortez Saturday

Weather’s frightful, but show’s delightful
Fire and ice fill the air as the Chrome Mafia float passes by the judges in the 2013 Parade of Lights.

The Four Corners Board of Realtors is gearing up for the 27th annual Parade of Lights on Main Street, Cortez.

Skies should be clear Saturday night in Cortez, according to the National Weather Service, but spectators should plan to wear plenty of layers, since temperatures could drop to around 20 degrees at parade time. Last year, hundreds attended what parade organizer Terry McCabe called “the best parade ever,” despite temperatures in the mid-30s. She’s hoping for a similar turnout this year.

As of Wednesday, about 50 organizations had signed up to participate in the parade, and McCabe said she expects some last-minute registrations. Several businesses and organizations from last year will be returning, and McCabe said “there are always new ones.” Last year, about 70 organizations were featured in the parade.

The parade will begin at 6 p.m. Saturday on Main Street. Parade floats will be judged based on traits like creativity, workmanship and adherence to the theme, which this year is “Preserving Treasured Memories of Christmas Past.” Local historical group The ’40s Bunch will lead the parade as grand marshal.

Judges will be watching from the intersection of Market and Main streets as the floats go by. First-, second- and third-place winners will receive cash prizes in the nonprofit, commercial and miscellaneous categories. Last year’s first-place winners were the Montezuma County Fair Board, Diesel Technology and the Four Corners Roller Derby team.

For more information about the Parade of Lights, call 970-565-8408 or email McCabe at terrymc@move2swcolo.com. Winning floats will be announced shortly after the end of the parade.

Parade of Lights entry form (PDF)

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