Christmas Peppermint Stick Parade Route

Written By: Susan Gregory, Cashiers Area Chamber of Commerce | Issue: December 2024

The countdown to Christmas is on, and in the picturesque mountain town of Cashiers, that can only mean one thing: the return of the much-loved Christmas Parade! This year, Cashiers is celebrating a milestone – the 50th Annual Cashiers Christmas Peppermint Stick Parade – and it promises to be a spectacle you won’t want to miss.

Set for Saturday, December 7, at 3:00 P.M., this parade is the heart of the holiday season in Cashiers, uniting both locals and visitors in a jubilant celebration of festive cheer.

But if you want to get the best view, make sure you arrive early to grab a prime parking spot along the new parade route. The parade will march up US 64, starting at Frank Allen Road, winding past the Chamber, and continuing to the Crossroads, where it turns right onto 107 S and then right again onto Frank Allen.

This year’s parade will be especially meaningful, as we honor Nicole Smith Russell (Nikki Smith) as our Grand Marshal, in loving memory of her mother, Sandie Smith, who founded the Peppermint Stick Parade in 1974. Sandie’s vision for a festive gathering has become a treasured tradition, and Nikki’s participation continues the legacy of holiday magic Sandie began 50 years ago.

From vintage fire engines to colorful, creative floats, this year’s parade will dazzle spectators with nearly 50 participants, including beloved holiday icons, Santa and Mrs. Claus. Along with the usual parade charm, you can expect a few delightful surprises to keep the holiday spirit alive and well.

This year also introduces a new twist: Christmas music along the route. Thanks to the Cashiers Area Chamber, spectators will be treated to festive tunes as they line the streets, filling the air with the sounds of the season. Get in the holiday spirit with festive tunes from the Chamber’s Spotify account. Scan the Peppermint Stick Parade QR Code below to follow along during the parade. We will make the code accessible at 2:00 P.M. on parade day. It’s the perfect way to stay connected and immersed in the holiday cheer.

The 50th Annual Peppermint Stick Parade wouldn’t be possible without the support of our community. This year’s parade has garnered record interest, and with a growing number of participants, we’ve outgrown our previous staging area.
But, thanks to the efforts of our local sheriff’s office, fire, and rescue departments, who volunteer their time and expertise, we can ensure a safe and fun-filled experience for everyone.

A special shout-out also goes to our Peppermint Stick Sponsor, Ace Handyman Services of Cashiers, whose generous support helps bring this event to life. It truly takes a village to pull together an event of this scale, and the Cashiers community does it with heart and style.

So mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and head to Cashiers for an afternoon of joy, community, and unforgettable holiday magic at the 50th Annual Cashiers Christmas Peppermint Stick Parade. For more details, call the Cashiers Area Chamber at (828) 743-5191.

It’s the perfect way to kick off the season – one float, one tune, and one smile at a time!