The Chelsea Community Fair is an event that truly attracts many participants from the area. Some enter their arts, crafts, kitchen creations or livestock for judging. Some like to watch the demolition derby or rodeo. Still others want to enjoy the midway rides and games. But nothing brings out as many people as the Fair Parade.
Getting Ready to Participate
This year on Saturday, August 27th, St. Louis Center decided to join in the parade fun. Staff members made the arrangements for a permit, a hay wagon and a theme for the float. The residents helped to paint some of the decorations and of course to pass out the candy.
So, with great excitement in their hearts and picnic lunches in their hands, the residents headed to downtown Chelsea and the parade staging area. As they waited for everyone to get ready and the parade to begin, they each ate their lunch and got their throwing arms ready for the mile-long event.
Be a Life Saver
Staff members who accompanied the residents were decked out in lifeguard shirts and visors to personify the theme, “Be a life saver for St. Louis Center.” The hay wagon was decorated with waves and featured a giant lifeguard chair and lifesaving ring. Staff and residents riding on the float threw wrapped lifesavers candies while those who walked gave out cards with the candies attached. The cards invited recipients to ‘Be a lifesaver for St. Louis Center’ and visit the website to discover volunteer opportunities.
One of the firefighters was overheard saying that it was the largest amount of entries in the parade’s history. Parade goers were all excited to see so many floats, and get so much candy. And so many of them were especially excited to see the St. Louis Center residents. There were cheers, clapping and people looking for handshakes from their favorite Center residents.
The weather was sunny and warm, perfect conditions to watch a parade. By the time the parade arrived at the final destination, the gate into the fair, the residents were ready for a cold drink of water and the ride home in an air-conditioned car.
Same Time Next Year?
Everyone had a great time, planning, preparing and participating in the 2022 Chelsea Fair Parade. You can look for the residents again next year in this fun community tradition. Like it says on the shirts of the Jiffy Mix parade staff, “Ain’t MUFFIN like a parade.”
You can be a Lifesaver just by volunteering at St. Louis Center. Tell us how you would like to help.
Please let us know if you would like to volunteer to help with events, gardening, or any of many various activities at St. Louis Center by filling out the form below!
