Cooleemee Celebrates the Season with a Joyous Christmas Parade and Old-Time Christmas

A group of children sitting on a brick patio listens to a person dressed as Santa Claus on a porch. Adults stand around, some with cameras, observing the scene. It is a festive outdoor gathering, with winter clothing visible on the attendees.
Mrs. Claus reading Twas the Night Before Christmas.

The streets of Cooleemee came alive with holiday spirit during the annual Christmas Parade on November 30th. Beginning at Cooleemee Elementary School and winding its way to the historic Zachary House, this cherished tradition brought together friends, family, and neighbors to celebrate the magic of the season.

Santa and Mrs. Claus wave from a fire truck labeled "Cooleemee Fire Dept. Engine 1." Santa is visible in the passenger seat, while Mrs. Claus is behind the wheel. The truck is shiny and parked outdoors under a clear sky.

A Parade Full of Holiday Spirit

The Christmas Parade kicked off with a joyful lineup at Cooleemee Elementary School at 3 p.m. Participants, including community groups, festive floats, and cheerful individuals, made their way through the streets, spreading holiday cheer. The route culminated at the historic Zachary House, where spectators and participants alike gathered to continue the celebrations.

A group of seven people smiles outdoors at night during the Cooleemee Celebrates event. In the center, two dressed as Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus bring an Old-Time Christmas cheer, while the others in cozy winter clothing stand on a brick path in front of a building.
(L to R) John Chandler, Teresa Bivins, Sandra Ferrell, Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, Candace Head, Heather Cline, and Daphne Beck

Old-Time Christmas at the Zachary House

Immediately following the parade, the festivities continued with an Old-Time Christmas celebration at the Zachary House. Hosted by the Cooleemee Historical Association (CHA), the Town of Cooleemee, and The Bridge Church, this classic Christmas celebration delighted attendees of all ages with festive activities and delicious treats.

A woman smiles while holding a trophy with a large red bow, standing next to a person dressed as Santa Claus who is pointing at her. They are outside with festive decorations visible in the background.
Fudge contest winner Cathy Cook.

The Return of the Fudge Contest

This year’s Old-Time Christmas featured the revival of a cherished tradition: the fudge contest! Originally introduced by retired Cooleemee Mayor John Chandler in the early 2000s, the contest made a sweet comeback, much to the delight of attendees. First-time fudge maker Cathy Cook took home the prize, impressing everyone with her delectable creation. All types of fudge were welcomed, adding a nostalgic and delicious touch to the dessert table.

A man in a red vest stands on steps of a brick building, holding a microphone and speaking. He holds papers in his other hand. A sign on the door behind him reads "OPEN." Greenery decorates the banister.
Cooleemee Mayor Jeff Smith welcomes attendees

Activities to Warm the Heart

Cooleemee news correspondent and resident, KC Smith, shared a description of the festive fun:  

Cooleemee’s Old-Time Christmas and Parade came back to town while many enjoyed the festivities. Christmas candy was flying all over the street as children scampered around to grab what they could. Entries in the parade were filled with smiles and joyfulness as they gifted handfuls of candy to the visitors.

The Cooleemee Historical Association organized the event which included a fudge contest with 13 entries this year. Kathy Cook was so surprised she won because she stated she had never made fudge before.

The Bridge Church located on Main Street was present again at the event handing out hot cocoa, candy, and more. Their involvement in any events held in Cooleemee always makes a huge difference and is greatly appreciated. 

Pastor Justin Blue read the Christmas story from the Bible.

The CHA made a lot of people happy by providing two fire pits to help warm up from the brisk cold air. Women of the community baked homemade cakes that were sliced up for each person in line. A fresh cedar tree was cut and placed next to Mr. and Mrs. Claus which added to the ole time feel of Christmas. Cedar trees were commonly cut down in the woods to supply families with a Christmas tree.

Cooleemee’s First Baptist Church choir sang carols and it was wonderful to have a group of people spreading the joy of Christmas.

A big thank you to the CHA for bringing back a tradition that many have missed. Several people stated they didn’t know Cooleemee had anything like this gathering and they were sure to be back next year. Feel free to contact me at www.cooleemeenews@gmail.com or call 336.250.1133, I would love to hear from you.

A Magical Celebration to Remember

The Cooleemee Christmas Parade and Old-Time Christmas filled the holiday season with joy, community spirit, and festive cheer, reminding everyone of the true magic of Christmas. The Town of Cooleemee once again proved that there is no better place to celebrate the holiday season than in the heart of this vibrant and welcoming community.

Relive the magic with these fabulous photos by KC Smith.