STAMFORD CT – On the eve of the 24th annual Stamford Downtown Parade Spectacular presented by Stamford Advocate, those curious to see how the parade’s 16 giant helium balloons come to life are invited to attend the Point72 Giant Balloon Inflation Party. This pre-parade event, hosted by Point72 and taking place on Saturday, November 18 from 3-6 p.m. at the intersection of Hoyt Street and Summer Street in Stamford Downtown, will allow spectators a behind-the-scenes look at the balloons as they take to the sky.
The party will offer live music, parade talent including clowns and cartoon characters, dance routines by Locust Performing Arts Center and a meet and greet with Santa. Spectators will also be treated to a special performance by comic daredevil Bello Nock, who will provide a sneak peek of the thrilling act he has scheduled for Sunday’s parade. Bello is set to amaze the audience with his unique ability to make people laugh while simultaneously performing awe-inspiring stunts.
The parade, taking place on Sunday, November 19, is one of the largest of its kind in the country, with more than 200,000 spectators annually. The parade is produced by Stamford Downtown Special Services District.
Parade highlights include five new balloons: Captain Barnacles, Alphonso the Dragon, Ozzy the Octopus, Pirate Pete and Peppa Pig. Among returning favorites are Very Hungry Caterpillar, Fred Flintstone, Kung Fu Panda, Mr. Potato Head and Paddington Bear. In addition to the procession's signature balloons, the streets will also be filled with the sounds of 12 marching bands, including the NYPD Emerald Society Pipe & Drum Band, the Fairfield County Police Pipes and Drums and high school groups from Stamford, Westhill, Trumbull, Brien McMahon, Uniondale, Brentwood, Bristol Eastern and Harrison. A favorite float, Stamford’s Teacher of the Year, returns to host this year’s recipient Vin Urbanowski. Featured musical acts include Samba New York! and Silver Steel Band. Television personality and Stamford resident Alan Kalter will once again grace the grandstand, acting as the parade’s Master of Ceremonies for his 14th year.
The parade is scheduled to begin at noon on November 19 at the intersection of Summer Street at Hoyt Street and conclude on Atlantic Street, just a few short blocks from the Stamford Metro-North Railroad Station.
For photographs and more information call 203-348-5285 or to see what’s happening in Stamford Downtown, please visit www.stamford-downtown.com or follow us @BalloonParadeCT.
About Stamford Downtown Special Services District:
Stamford Downtown Special Services District is responsible for creating, managing and promoting a quality environment for people, which enhances the economic vitality of Stamford Downtown.
www.stamford-downtown.com