Volunteers getting city ready for 48th COTR
Hundreds of volunteers are lending their time and talents in the final push to make Christmas on the River the best ever.
For 48 years COTR has welcomed thousands of visitors to enjoy Demopolis’ Christmas party for the world.
Favorite events from past years are joining a few new attractions, all to give the city and its visitors the best possible kick off to the holiday.
COTR again will feature four days of events, beginning at Whitfield Regional Hospital with the lighting of the Love Lights Tree and announcement of the Special Child.
The tree lighting came about from the hospital’s Auxiliary as a fund-raiser. Red and white lights shine in honor or in memory of loved ones. While the lighted tree will stand proudly outside the hospital, trees inside the lobby are decorated with ornaments naming each of the honorees.
The identity of the Special Child is being kept secret until the opening event. Each year a child with special needs is chosen to flip the switch to light the tree. Whoever is selected also will ride in the COTR Day Parade on Dec. 7.
Thursday the Public Square in downtown Demopolis will dress in its finery as the trees lining its walkways are lighted. At this time St. Nicholas will be crowned. He or she is selected from nominees who epitomize the spirit of giving throughout the year.
On Friday the celebration kicks into high gear with several events to draw visitors. Christmas in the Canebrake at Demopolis’ three house museum, decorated in the style of the 19th Century, begins at 5:30 p.m. It will feature food, entertainment and docents dressed in period costumes to greet guests. Admission is $5 at each home.
The George Franks Field by the City Landing will open its gates at 5 p.m. for fans of barbecue as the Alabama State Championship BBQ Cook-off begins. Admission is $5, entitling each entrant to a barbecue sandwich, water and chips pared by Trinity Episcopal Church and the BBQ cookoff crew. Several competing teams also are offering samples of their cooking expertise to people who come by.
Judging in four categories for professional teams and two for “backyard” teams will be the next day, with the winners being announced at 2 p.m. on Saturday. Winners will go on to compete for the national title.
The climax of COTR on Saturday begins with the Fair in the Square at 7:30 a.m. The Public Square will be filled with booths featuring items to tempt Christmas shoppers, satisfy appetites and provide fun for children.
Registration for the Jingle Bell 5K Run/Walk starts at 8 a.m. in front of Rooster Hall with the race beginning an hour later.
Thousands will line the streets when the COTR Day Parade begins at 11:30 a.m. Grand Marshall Dr. Ken Tucker, president of the University of West Alabama, will lead the procession that includes six bands, 15 elaborate floats, 35 other entries and Big Al will delight everyone. Santa and Mrs. Claus will make their first appearance in the city.
Fireworks and the nautical parade – featuring a dozen lighted floats that really float, begin at the Demopolis City Landing at 6 p.m. The COTR Gala and dance at the Demopolis Civic Center will be held during and after the parade. Admission is $30 per person or $50 for a couple.