By Martha J. Henderson

Special Sections Editor

The annual Buggy Festival isn't the only event celebrated by the folks of Carthage.

Every year, the annual "world famous" Carthage Christmas parade is held on the first Tuesday of December. This year, it is scheduled for Dec. 7.

Hundreds of spectators line the streets of downtown Carthage to watch as the parade passes by.

Sponsored by the Town of Carthage, the parade begins immediately after the Moore County Christmas tree -lighting at the old historic courthouse.

The tree lighting begins at 6 p.m.

The parade features commercial and homemade floats as well as church groups, civic organizations and others. Girl Scout and Boy Scout troops -participate in the parade, as do the marching bands from Union Pines High School and New Century Middle School.

A number of local dignitaries including the town commissioners, Miss Moore County and others, also are part of the annual parade.

Horses and lots of firetrucks are -featured. And, much to the delight of youngsters in the crowd, the main man himself, Santa Claus, makes an appearance, riding on a float at the end of the parade.

According to event organizers, the parade starts at the Carriage Oaks Shopping Center, moves up Monroe Street, halfway around the circle at the courthouse and ends at the corner of McReynolds and Ray streets.

For more information about the parade or those interested in participating, contact the town offices at (910) 947-2331 or e-mail kpohara@nc.rr.com.

Fourth of July Parade

Flags flying, crowds cheering, floats decorated in red, white and blue streamers - is there anything quite as American as celebrating the Fourth of July in a small town?

Sponsored by the Carthage Rotary Club, the Carthage Fourth of July parade is the perfect patriotic example of a small town parade.

Parade chairman Steve Ennis believes strongly in the importance of the parade and the heartwarming effect it has on a community.

"This isn't just a parade for Carthage," says Ennis. "It's a county thing. It's our community and we want to include -everybody, to keep doing the good things that everybody can enjoy."

The annual parade is held at 11 a.m. on the Fourth of July, unless, Ennis says, if the Fourth is on a Sunday, then it is held on the Saturday prior.

Large crowds turn out every year to line Monroe Street to take in the floats, antique and classic cars, firetrucks from departments throughout the county, tractors, horses, wagons and children on bicycles. Marching bands from Union Pines High School and New Century Middle School always delight the crowds.

Local dignitaries and beauty queens also participate in the parade.

"It's a lot of fun," says Ennis.

The parade is open to all veterans, social, civic and religious groups wishing to participate.

Commercial floats are available for sponsorship by local businesses or -organizations.

For information on or to participate in the parade, contact Steve Ennis at (910) 947-6555.