(Chelsea Update would like to thank Greg Raye and Bridget Favre for the information in this story.)
The annual pet parade, sponsored and organized by Chelsea Farmers Supply, is a favorite part of the Chelsea Sounds and Sights Festival.
This year’s parade theme, Mythical Creatures, promises an unforgettable opportunity for pets and their owners to strut their stuff downtown.
Participants should plan to arrive at Chelsea Farmers Supply, located across from the railroad tracks at 122 Jackson St. between 9 and 9:40 a.m. on Saturday, July 28 to check-in and get lined up for the parade.
The parade features dozens of pets ranging from goats to lizards, rabbits to ponies, and dogs to cats. The wide variety of pets is always a big attraction, and the creativity of the costumes show off the owner’s imagination.
All pets are invited to attend, as long as they get along with their animals and people. Costumes are encouraged but not required.
“We just want everyone to have fun,” said H.K. Leonard, owner of Chelsea Farmers Supply with her husband, Greg Raye.
Immediately before the parade, contests take place with awards given to the winners in several categories. Each year the contest judging is by Ms. Washtenaw County. Contests include: Best Kisser (usually a dog), Most Unique Costume, Largest, Smallest, Youngest, and Oldest Pets, and more.
The parade path will be slightly altered this year due to construction. The parade starts at Chelsea Farmers Supply, proceeding down Jackson Street to East Street, then south on East to Park Street, then west to Main Street, then north on Main Street. The route then turns east on E. Middle Street, turning north at the parking lot before First Congregational Church back to Chelsea Farmers Supply.
For further information on the pet parade call H.K. at Chelsea Farmers Supply 734-475-1777 or visit www.chelseafestivals.com.
