On Christmas Eve, Toluca Lake transforms into a scene of lights, music and neighborly cheer as the Magical Holiday Parade winds its way through town. What began as a revived community effort two years ago has quickly reestablished itself as a cherished local tradition — one that parade chair and longtime resident Craig Strong says is improving each season.
“Every year we become more and more streamlined,” Strong says. “In the first year, we were shocked that everything turned out the way it did. Year two was better, but I think we made it more complicated than necessary. In year three, I believe we’ll start simplifying things. Moving forward, the goal is that by year five, we’ll have the entire process dialed in.”
To make that goal a reality, Strong assembled a newly expanded committee. “I’m chairing again, and we also have Esther Walker, Pete Flynn, Carolina Sandoval, Mel Tooker and Angie Niemeyer,” he explains. “We’re really excited to have a new board in place and to have more responsibilities delegated, which I think will make the process easier for everyone. It’s a great crew!”
This year’s parade will feature an earlier start time — 5 p.m. instead of 5:30 — to make it easier for families and volunteers. “Another change we may try is a halftime break,” Strong shares. “If we have volunteers for the first half, we’ll bring in fresh volunteers for the second half so the workload isn’t as long or tiring for everyone.”
Volunteer turnout has been one of the parade’s biggest challenges. “There were a lot of people who volunteered and said they were going to show up, but they didn’t, and that made it very hard on us,” Strong says. “So I think this year we’re going to have to actually pay people to show up for certain things — from construction workers to security, dancers and certain characters — so I know that those staples are there.”
Another uncertainty this year is whether the iconic Toluca Lake Trolley will return. “The trolley is a very sensitive subject,” Strong admits. “We went through a lot to get this trolley, and once we got it, we spent a lot to maintain it — too much, in my opinion. It’s taking up a lot of our donation dollars. It’s a great piece, a magical piece, and it’s over 100 years old. It’s 50/50 whether it’s going to make it in the parade this year.”
As always, Strong emphasizes the importance of community support. “If you’re going to volunteer, please show up. Donations are equally important, and they are tax-deductible,” he says. “Every donation goes directly to the event, and we need them.”
For Strong, all the long hours and challenges are worth it. “After all, you’re putting on a party for an entire neighborhood,” he says. “Seeing neighbors come out of their homes smiling, singing along. Some who’ve watched this parade for decades, and others seeing it for the very first time — that’s what makes it all worthwhile.”
Visit magicalholidayparade.org to make a tax-deductible donation or find out how you can volunteer to get involved.
