ROBERTSDALE, Ala. — If it’s the end of November, then you can be sure that people in Silverhill, Robertsdale and Loxley are planning their annual Christmas parades.

This, of course, means that area youngsters will have a couple of chances to get a glimpse of the Big Red Elf himself.

The Loxley Optimist Club’s Christmas Parade has been a fixture in town for about 25 years, members of the club estimate. The parade forms up at the Loxley Church of God and proceeds north up Highway 59 to the Loxley Civic Center. This year, the parade will be Saturday, Dec. 12 and begins at 10 a.m.

“This is for the children and for the community. That’s what it’s all about,” said Optimist President Gwynne Weaver.

Last year, says Theresa Hardin, a member of the Loxley Optimists who is organizing this year’s parade, “We had 25 units.” She expects the same number of units or more this year. Hardin added that the Robertsdale High band has already confirmed that it will be in the parade.

Of course, there is one person who, “never gets to see it.,” despite participating in a number of Optimist parades.

That would be Loxley Mayor Billy Middleton, who usually drives the parade’s Grand Marshal down the route in an open car. This year, the Grand Marshal will be artist Ricky Trione, who has done a lot of work with local schools.

“I do love seeing the kids get all excited,” said Middleton.

Those who wish to enter the Loxley parade should call 747-7313 for more information.

Not to be outdone, the City of Robertsdale and the Robertsdale Rotary Club will hold their annual Christmas Parade at 6 p.m. Dec. 5. The annual event will begin at Robertsdale High and proceed up 59 to Honeybee Park. It costs $10 to enter a float and more information can be obtained by calling 947-2626.

Both Santa and Mrs. Claus will be attending the event, and they will pose for photos in a special area of the park.

In Silverhill, Santa, plans a two-day stop. On Friday, Dec. 4 at 6:30 p.m. the annual Christmas Parade begins, heading in front of Town Hall on Highway 104. Santa will be in attendance.

On Saturday, Dec. 5, Santa will be at Silverhill Town Hall 9 a.m. to noon and photographer Cathy Elgie will take two 5 by 7 photos of a family for $10.

Hand tiles, pavers and pickets for the Kids Park will also be available for purchase.

All proceeds from Saturday’s event in Silverhill benefits the Kids Park.