MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — The Murfreesboro Police Department Traffic Unit will close both the inner and outer Downtown Square on Sunday for safety during the annual City of Murfreesboro Christmas Parade, “A Sweet Christmas.”

The Square will close to vehicular traffic at 6 a.m. and reopen after the parade ends. The parade begins at 2 p.m.

Traffic Captain Bryan Anderson explained the reasoning behind the closure, saying, “Many floats and emergency vehicles have difficulty maneuvering around the Square when cars are parked. For the safety of attendees, we decided to close the Square to traffic.”

Spectators may stand around the Square or along the parade route, and lawn chairs are allowed. The parade will begin at Middle Tennessee State University and end around the Rutherford County Historic Courthouse.

The Murfreesboro Christmas Parade is one of the city’s most heartwarming traditions, as floats, bands, and dancers march their way down Main Street in celebration of the cherished holiday season. The parade travels down East Main Street and around the Square at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 14.

Organizers announced that this year’s Grand Marshal will be Mr. Bill Allen, a Navy veteran, D-Day survivor, and hometown hero. Allen’s life of service spans more than a century. He worked for 32 years with the Murfreesboro Electric Department, served as Chairman of the Murfreesboro Golf Commission for 30 years, and played a major role in the development of the Old Fort Golf Course. He also served on the Parks and Recreation Board for 20 years, was PTA President at Hobgood School, Riverdale Band Booster Vice President, an MTSU BRAA member, a longtime Babe Ruth League baseball coach, a Deacon at First Baptist Church, and later worked at Woodfin Funeral Chapel, even after retirement.

Parking and Viewing

• Parking: The best place for spectators to park is the Judicial Center Parking Garage located at 223 N. Maple Street.

• Viewing: Spectators can line Main Street from Middle Tennessee Boulevard to Maple Street.

Parade Awards

Awards will be given in the following categories:

• Best Business Float

• Best Church/School Float

• Best Scout/Civic/Social Float

• Best Antique Car

• Best Dancing/Street Performance

• Best Marching Band

Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead for traffic delays and arrive early for viewing.