The Annual Brookhaven Christmas Parade will roll throughdowntown on Thursday, Nov. 30, and preparations are under way forthe holiday event, organizers said.

The first parade-related event of the season is the crowning ofMiss Merry Christmas. She will represent the chamber during theparade and at other chamber functions throughout the holidayseason, said Rita Rich, parade co-chairwoman.

The Miss Merry Christmas contest is Thursday, Nov. 2, at 6:30p.m. at the chamber office.

The contest is open to girls ages 17-20, and applications may bepicked up at the chamber. The application deadline is Monday, Oct.30.

Rich said other parade plans are also in the works. She saidorganizers to trying to confirm grand marshal plans, andco-chairman Charles Campbell is lining up vehicles for area electedofficials and others who are being invited to ride in theparade.

“Santa Claus will be up close and early in the parade,” Richsaid.

Rich said there is only one Santa Claus and the chamber ishandling arrangements for him to ride in the parade.

The theme for this year’s parade is “The Gifts ofChristmas.”

Rich said there has been a change in float entry fees.

The cost is $20 per float, vehicle or other entry. It had been$15 for a car and $25 for floats.

“We will be giving certificates for the float awards,” Richsaid, adding there will not be any first, second, or third placedesignations. “We did that so we could recognizes people’s hardwork on their floats.”

Float categories are Religious, General, School and SmallBusiness.

In the Religious category, awards will be given for mostbeautiful, most original and best depiction of theme. The otherthree categories will include those awards plus one for mostfestive.

Applications for floats are also available at the chamber. Theentry deadline is Monday, Nov. 27.

Some pre-parade events are also being lined up, Rich said. Theyinclude the Stage Lights performing in Railroad Park and SantaClaus being available for photos with children at the logcabin.