In anticipation of the Homecoming Dance on October 7th, the hometown homecoming parade on October 5th represented and expressed the thriving community formed in Louisa County. The parade began at the Mineral Baptist Church and marched through to Elizabeth Trice Walton Park.

Many businesses and school organizations were involved in the parade, such as the National Art Honor Society (NAHS) from the high school. They, along with many other groups, created their floats around the theme of Homecoming; “The Enchanted Forest”. 

“Our float was about artistic creativity and expressing ourselves in different ways,” NAHS member Joshua Hix said. “I love the National Art Honor Society, and I wanted to show my appreciation for the club.”

The Student Leadership Committee (SLC) organized and set up the entire parade. The SLC has been working since the beginning of the year to organize other events, such as the pep rally that occurred the day after the parade. 

“It’s a big part of Louisa,” SLC member Luke Rowan said. “A lot of people show up, and it gives our local companies the ability to get themselves out there and have a good time.”

Planning for the parade is extensive and involves the SLC contacting many businesses and organizations in order for the parade to go over flawlessly. The SLC contacted over 44 organizations to join the parade. 

“The parade has been done for about seven years now.  It used to be a variety of clubs and the Homecoming Court just going around the bus loop,” SLC teacher Meredith Williamson said. “They worked really hard to make it happen, and each year, it keeps improving and growing. All I did was show up.”

Clubs and organizations often have difficulty gaining recognition, the parade gives an opportunity for these organizations. It also allows the members to show off their own creativity and their Louisa County pride. 

“I wanted to help show up and really make a statement,“ Hix added. “One million percent, I would do it again.”