Why is the Raleigh Christmas Parade before Thanksgiving?

RALEIGH (WTVD) -- While there's a lot of excitement surrounding the 2023 Raleigh Christmas Parade, many residents have just one question - why is the parade before Thanksgiving?

Well, there are a few reasons.

Jennifer Martin with Shop Local Raleigh said the tradition started back in the 1930s. The Raleigh Christmas Parade has been held the Saturday before Thanksgiving dating back to 1939.

The parade took a hiatus for a few years because of World War II.

Local merchants hold the parade the week before Thanksgiving to kick off the holiday season and to encourage you to shop local!

Watch the video for more information.

Click here for information on the 2022 Raleigh Christmas Parade