APPLETON, Wis. (WFRV) - The Appleton Parades Committee is still accepting applications to participate in the 53rd Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade on Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2024. According to a release, the response from interested organizations wanting to participate has been sensational. Any organization interested in participating must complete and submit an official application by Friday, Oct. 4, 2024. Wisconsin Department of Transportation: WIS 54/57 work finished on time and on budget The Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade is the largest nighttime parade in the Midwest. It's scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m. and move east on College Ave. from State St. to Drew St. The event draws 80,000 spectators to downtown Appleton alongside a television and online audience of more than 100,000 on WFRV-TV Local 5 News. All floats and walking units are encouraged to embrace this year's theme: "The Avenue of Christmas Spirits." While the Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade signals the beginning of the holiday season, it's also an opportunity for people of all ages to come together and celebrate. Health officials report first Winnebago County human case of West Nile Virus in 2024 "This year's theme highlights the holiday magic, joy, and wonder of College Avenue," said Corey Otis, Appleton Parade Committee Chairperson. "We invite participants to explore the festive enchantments, cherished traditions, and playful elements of the season." This year's parade marshals are Mark Behnke and Bobbi Jo Paschke, the longtime owner and manager of Bazil's Pub & Provisions, Olde Town Tavern, and Firefly Lounge. After more than three decades of running the establishments, Behnke and Paschke recently transferred control of the Appleton landmark institutions, but both will remain integral pillars of Appleton through Behnke Properties. Spike in whooping cough cases reported in Outagamie County, 7 confirmed since August "Not only do we honor Mark and Bobbi Jo's legendary tenure in Downtown Appleton," said Otis, "we also salute their generosity, dedication, and innovation in cultivating College Avenue." To apply to participate in the Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade, click here.