By Judith Roberts
The Peach Festival Parade rolled down a new route this year, and kids and adults alike stood on the sidewalks of North Monroe Street and West Alabama Avenue to see the floats and catch some candy.
Many of the attendees said the Peach Parade was one of their favorite parts of the day.
“We come to the Peach Fest every year, and the kids look forward to all parades,” said Ruston resident Taylor Allen. “The kids would say the candy is their favorite part. I would say I love it because it’s an added bonus for the kids.”
Seven-year-old Callie Hoefler was looking for Dots to be thrown at the parade, but she also enjoyed the floats.
“I like the fire truck,” Hoefler said. “And the sirens.”
Julie Mays attended with her family and said this was a tradition she’s had since before her children were born.
“We have been to the Peach Parade for many years,” she said. “One of our first Peach Parades was shortly after moving here, I believe in 2014.”
Once the parade was over, many festival-goers, including Mays, headed downtown for more activities.
“Kids Alley has been a great addition for us now,” she said. “We spend most of our time here before making a quick run through the crafts. The last few years, we’ve left the fest and driven out to Mitcham’s for ice cream.”
Ashley King echoed the sentiment, adding that the festival not having an admission charge also helped her celebrate all things peachy with her family.
“We usually attend the parade,” King said. “This is the first year in a couple of years we’re attending it all.”
