Twitter
Facebook
Instagram
ROSE HILL — This Dec. 6, the heart of Rose Hill will come alive with the glow of parade lights and the warmth of hometown cheer as the community gathers for Christmas by the Tracks — an annual tradition of togetherness and small-town magic.
This year’s celebration holds special meaning as Rose Hill marks its 150th anniversary. Participants can enjoy a craft fair beginning at noon, browse local vendors and food trucks, explore historic displays and old-town films in the former fire department.
Entertainment begins at 4 p.m., starting with a praise dance performance by The Vessels of Worship, followed by The Beatitudes, and solo performances by Rose Hill’s own Sydney Casteen (banjo), Adam Quinn (guitar), and Renee Hoxie (vocals).
After the parade, the music continues with local favorites Parade Marshal Harvey Arnold Jr., the 380 East Band, and The Johnson Boys.
“Our entertainment should be fantastic,” said Ronda Rivenbark, the event organizer. “We are so grateful and proud of our local talent.”
The parade lineup begins at 5 p.m., with the procession stepping off at 6. Organizers are “shooting for the moon and stars,” hoping for at least 75 entries, all decked out in their best illuminated Christmas décor. The route begins on Railroad Street, turns left onto Church Street, then left onto Oak Street, ending at Rose Hill Baptist Church.
Children are invited to join the Kids Zone, where they can decorate bikes, scooters, and ride-on toys and help lead the parade.
Six volunteers, along with support from town board members, have coordinated everything from parade entries to entertainment, with the event’s largest support coming from The Trading Company of Rose Hill. Roads along the route, including Church Street, will close for the festivities, but ample parking will be available, and no trains will run through town that day.
Rivenbark says she hopes this parade will be the “biggest one yet.” For Rivenbark, the best part of the parade is “the people and the joy it brings to our little hometown.”
