Milford's Magical Movie Parade Captivates Crowds

The annual Milford Community Parade was a dazzling display of cinematic splendor, as costumed characters from beloved movies took to the streets, captivating the hearts of thousands. From Barbie to Cinderella, the Wizard of Oz to the Sound of Music, the parade was a true celebration of the magic of the silver screen.

Bringing Hollywood to the Heart of Milford

The Milford Community Parade is a highly anticipated annual event that transforms the town into a vibrant, cinematic wonderland. This year's theme, "Movie Magic," was a resounding success, as the streets came alive with a parade of colorful and creative floats, each one showcasing the iconic characters and scenes that have captured the imaginations of audiences worldwide.

A Parade of Enchantment

The parade was a true feast for the senses, with marching bands filling the air with rousing melodies, and spectators lining the streets to catch a glimpse of the dazzling displays. Ghosts, goblins, and other spooky characters mingled with the beloved figures from classic films, creating a truly magical atmosphere.One of the highlights of the parade was the appearance of Miss Delaware, Nova Gaffney, who served as the Grand Marshall for the event. Her presence added an extra touch of glamour and excitement to the proceedings, as she waved to the adoring crowds.

A Community Celebration

The Milford Community Parade is more than just a display of creative floats and costumed characters; it is a celebration of the town's vibrant spirit and the strong sense of community that permeates every aspect of the event. Families from near and far gathered to enjoy the festivities, sipping hot cocoa and wrapping themselves in cozy blankets to ward off the cool, crisp autumn air."This is one of the highlights of our year," said Jane Kingsley, a resident of nearby Dover. "We come down to Milford just to see the parade. It is one of the best in the state."

A Showcase of Talent and Creativity

The parade was a true showcase of the community's talent and creativity, with a total of 120 entries and 11 marching bands participating in the event. The competition was fierce, with numerous categories recognizing the exceptional efforts of the participants.In the Business Float category, Delmarva RV took home the top prize, followed by The Restoration Group and Milford Senior Center. The Under 18 Civic Float category saw TADA Performance Company claim first place, with Milford Pop Warner and Trail Life Troop DE 001 taking second and third, respectively.The Over 18 Civic Float category was dominated by Milford Church of Christ, who took first place, followed by Temple Lodge #8 and Milford Elks Lodge Drug Awareness Program. In the Restaurant category, Surf and Turf Bar and Grill emerged victorious, with Village & Venue in second place.

A Celebration of Diversity and Talent

The parade was a true celebration of the diverse talents and interests of the Milford community. From the marching bands to the decorated vehicles, each entry showcased the unique creativity and passion of its participants.First State BMX took first place in the Marching & Cycling category, with Milford Majorettes coming in second. Milford Music Center was recognized for its impressive Antique Vehicle display, while Dirt Road Patriots, No Limit Bike Group, and Lowered Habits were honored in the Group Decorated Vehicle category.The individual Decorated Vehicle category was won by Scott Welch of Mohawk Electrical Systems, followed by Paige's Kindness Project and Kent County Levy Court Bob Scott. The Group Costume category was dominated by Heroes for Happiness, with Milford Public Library and First State Club taking second and third place, respectively.The Equestrian category was a particular highlight, with Watkins Wonders Petting Zoo taking the top spot, and the Delmarva Chapter of the American Mustang and Burro Association earning second place.

A Showcase of Marching Band Excellence

The parade also featured a impressive display of marching band talent, with several high schools showcasing their musical prowess. In the Junior High Division, Dover Middle School took the top spot, while in the Senior High Division One group, Pocomoke High School emerged victorious, with Stephen Decatur in second place.The Senior High Division Two winner was Lake Forest High School, while Smyrna High School claimed the Senior High Division Three title, with Sussex Central High School in second place. Sussex Tech High School took the Senior High Division.

A Tradition of Family and Community

The Milford Community Parade is more than just a showcase of creativity and talent; it is a cherished tradition that brings the community together in a celebration of family, friendship, and the magic of the movies. As the parade website stated, "Walnut Street was filled with families, lights and music," creating an unforgettable experience for all who attended.The committee responsible for organizing the parade is already hard at work, planning for next year's event, scheduled for October 15, 2025. With the success of this year's "Movie Magic" theme, the community can look forward to another enchanting display of cinematic wonder in the years to come.