The streets of downtown Princeton burst with excitement Friday as hundreds of adults and children lined West Main Street, ready to catch candy and celebrate community spirit during the annual Black Patch Parade.
Each year, the Princeton Optimist Club hosts the parade, and this time, three of the Club’s longtime members—Roy Gene Rogers, Zeak Jamison, and George Kilgore—were selected to serve as grand marshals, leading the procession.
Before the parade kicked off, WPKY’s News Edge caught up with several attendees, including the grand marshals. Rogers shared that being chosen as a grand marshal was truly a privilege.
He said that the parade keeps growing every year, and the Black Patch Festival is especially meaningful to him.
Jamison also expressed that it was a privilege to be selected as a grand marshal.
Jamison also reflected on the personal significance the Festival holds for him.
After years of helping with the Parade and Festival, Kilgore said being selected as a grand marshal was a unique experience.
He pointed out that Optimist Club members have been busy the past few days getting ready for the parade and Festival, and this year they’re seeing a record number of booths.
Director Kevin Lane of the Caldwell County Animal Shelter was one of the participants in the parade.
Caldwell County Sheriff Don Weedman shared that the Parade and Festival unite the community.
Princeton Police Chief Chris King, who was assisting with closing West Main Street, said the Parade and Festival provide an enjoyable experience for community members.
Parade line-up began at 4:00 in the Butler parking lot, which was packed with participants ahead of the 5:00 start time. Held every year on Friday night, the parade marks the kickoff to the annual Black Patch Festival on Saturday.
WPKY will share more pictures from the parade in the coming days.
