News from City of Desert Hot Springs:
The City of Desert Hot Springs is pleased to announce the Updated Grand Marshal’s for the December 8, 2018 Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting Spectacular.
Community Grand Marshal Shaniyah Carlson A born and raised resident of Desert Hot Springs, 15-year-old Shaniyah Carlson has been climbing the ranks of MMA. The 110-pound California USFL Champion, 110-pound National Champion and 115-pound Panda Cup Champion of Northern California, displays grit, determination and drive which serves her well both on and off the mat. She is an amazing representation of our Community, which is why she was selected as this year’s Community Grand Marshal.
Veteran Grand Marshal Edward G. Johnson Edward Johnson has lived in Desert Hot Springs since 1992. He is a Vietnam Veteran who served in the United States Army from 19671971 and was awarded the Purple Heart after sustaining war injuries. Eddy’s big smile lights up the room and he has a heart of gold. He is the Care Taker of Veterans Park and has dedicated himself to finding ways to give back to his community, and military brothers and sisters, which is why he was selected as this year’s Veteran Grand Marshal.
Mike Tyson Mike Tyson, originally scheduled to attend as this year’s Celebrity Grand Marshal, has had an unexpected schedule change and is no longer available. In lieu of his attendance, Tyson invited Grand Marshal’s Shaniyah Carlson and Edward Johnson out for a personal meet and greet, where he presented them with autographed boxing gloves. Tyson looks forward to pursuing his business ventures in the City, which includes a large-scale development project and concert, which was originally scheduled for December 8th but moved to February 23, 2019.
For the first time ever, the Holiday Parade will take place in the evening, kicking off at 5:45 pm at the intersection of Palm Drive and Two Bunch Palms Trail. From there, the City will be fully illuminated as floats of lights, bedazzled performers and Community Grand Marshal Shaniyah Carlson and Veteran Grand Marshal Edward Johnson parade down Palm Drive toward City Hall on Palm Drive and Pierson Blvd. It is at this location that the community will gather for the traditional tree-lighting spectacular and holiday celebration.
Like last year, carnival rides and vendors will create a celebratory atmosphere for the whole family to enjoy! Expect live music, free pictures with Santa and his reindeer, ferris wheel rides, hot cocoa and coffee, cotton candy, rides on the “Polar Express” and much much more! Tamales, elote, funnel cake, agua fresca, churros and more will be available for purchase.
“Last year was a huge success, and this year we’re determined to top it,” Mayor Scott Matas says. “We’re planning double the rides, double the vendors – double the excitement!”
All those wishing to participate in this year’s parade should contact Roberta Crncic via phone at (760) 329-6411 ext. 114 or via email at [email protected]. Sponsorship Opportunities are also available.