Suzanne Howard will be recognized as the Special Guest at the 97th Concord Christmas Parade, according to an announcement from the City of Concord. Howard has played a key role in the parade for nearly forty years, serving as co-host and announcer for over two decades.
A lifelong resident of Concord, Howard’s involvement with the parade began in her childhood when she participated with her baton class and once rode on a bobsled constructed by her father. She described the event as a tradition that marks the beginning of the holiday season for many local families.
Howard’s transition from spectator to organizer happened after marrying John Howard, who had been involved with the parade since 1965. “When he and Suzanne married in 1987, she became a parade volunteer by association. Since that time, she has done everything from staking out the parade, reviewing applications, setting the lineup, and even cleaning up after the horses,” states the city’s release. Today, Howard co-hosts television coverage of the event alongside Teresa Padgett.
For this year’s parade on November 22 at 2:30 p.m., Howard will step away from her usual co-hosting duties to ride through Concord as an honored guest. Residents are invited to recognize her contributions during this public appearance. After completing her route, she will join Padgett and Macie Melton—who will temporarily take over co-hosting responsibilities—on stage to help close out the event.
The annual procession will follow its established path along Church Street from Lake Concord Road to Buffalo Avenue before ending at Corban Avenue. Those unable to attend can watch live coverage via YouTube or find additional details about city holiday events online at concordnc.gov/Christmas.
“Today, she continues to co-host the parade alongside Teresa Padgett. Together, they have been the voice narrating the parade for viewers on TV for more than 20 years,” according to city officials.
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