The Marion County Fair Board, past and present, along with their families, have been named the Grand Marshals of this year’s Little Egypt Festival Parade.
Parade Chair Troy Cannon says their selection goes along with the theme of the Saturday, October 7th, parade “Agriculture Sustains Us’ which is a nod to the basis of the festival and the meaning behind Salem being known as ‘The Gateway to Little Egypt’.
Cannon notes early explorers noted this region’s similarity to the fertile lands of Egypt, and gave this region, between the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers the nickname Little Egypt. Since the inception of the city, Salem has been known as the Gateway to Little Egypt.
Cannon says since this year’s parade is dedicated to its roots, it needs a strong reference to our agriculture element. So, as the most prolific agriculture ambassadors, Cannon has bestowed the honor of Grand Marshal to the entire Board of the Marion County Agricultural Fair, former and retired members, and their families.
Cannon feels this will make for a very fun festival and parade, leaving the Fair Board’s parade entry completely to the imagination of the members. Cannon says he’s very anxious to see what they come up with.
As an added bit of fun, Cannon is suggesting festival crew and participants, and attendees, wear farm-theme outfits, such as bib overalls. He says this may be the first time the theme, Grand Marshals, festival staff, and the entire crowd might be tied together on a common theme.
Entries are now being accepted for the parade. Entry forms are available at the front desk of WJBD Radio at 310 West McMackin Street or at the security desk at the east entrance to the Marion County Courthouse. The deadline for entry is Friday, September 29th.
The parade will step off at two Saturday afternoon October 7th, culminating a day of festivities both downtown and in Bryan Memorial Park.
