News Summary
Following community concerns over the initial theme of ‘Christmas Through the Colonies,’ Greenwood City, South Carolina has decided to adopt a new theme for this year’s Christmas parade. The revised theme will emphasize unity and inclusiveness, addressing feedback from residents who felt the original theme did not reflect the city’s diverse population. Mayor Brandon Smith stated that the change aims to foster a welcoming environment during the holiday festivities. The community will await further announcements regarding the specifics of the new theme.
Greenwood City, South Carolina is set to change the theme of this year’s annual Christmas parade following community concerns regarding the originally proposed theme, “Christmas Through the Colonies.” This theme aimed to commemorate the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence but sparked debate about its cultural sensitivity and representation.
The City of Greenwood has announced that the new theme will instead focus on unity and inclusiveness, specifically addressing feedback received from various members of the community who felt the original theme did not accurately reflect the diverse population of the area. Mayor Brandon Smith clarified that the decision to alter the theme was made in response to these community concerns and was not a politically motivated statement.
In discussing the change, Mayor Smith highlighted the importance of celebrating the positive aspects of the Greenwood community and ensuring that all residents feel included in holiday festivities. The change comes amid heightened sensitivity around historical themes that may not resonate positively with everyone in a modern context.
Local businesses have also expressed views on the original theme. Taylor Tucker, who manages Thayer’s— a local business located near the parade route— shared that the initial theme aimed to convey a sense of gratitude and connection to the nation’s history rather than exclusion. The original parade announcement included images and elements associated with colonial festivities, such as “powdered wigs, parading patriots, and Christmas spirit from every colony.” However, community feedback prompted leaders to reconsider these historical references in light of their modern-day implications.
A new theme for the Christmas parade is expected to be decided and formally announced at a later date, leaving residents and local stakeholders awaiting further updates. As the announcement of the original theme was met with mixed reactions, the decision to change it is viewed by some as an effort to foster a more welcoming environment for all members of the community.
Meanwhile, political figures have weighed in on the theme change. Lt. Governor Pamela Evette publicly criticized the decision, suggesting that it represents a far-left attack on American values and traditions. She urged the city leaders to reconsider their choice and reaffirm pride in American history and culture, framing the debate as an important conversation about national identity and community values.
Although Mayor Smith acknowledged the potentially toxic nature of social media discussions surrounding the parade’s theme, he also recognized it as a platform for community dialogue. The feedback generated by social media played a key role in the decision to revise the parade theme, illustrating how digital platforms can influence local governance and community planning.
The reexamination of the parade’s theme raises broader questions about the appropriateness of historical themes in contemporary celebrations and events. As Greenwood moves forward with planning this year’s Christmas parade, the focus will now incorporate elements of unity and inclusiveness, aiming to connect with a broader audience while still recognizing significant moments in American history.
This development in Greenwood underscores a growing sensitivity among communities regarding historical representation and cultural inclusivity, especially in events that are designed to showcase celebration and togetherness during the holiday season.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Greenwood Changes Christmas Parade Theme After Community Feedback
Lt. Governor Criticizes Christmas Parade Theme Change
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Family-Friendly Getaways: Discover Why South Carolina is the Perfect Holiday Destination
Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina: Lt. Governor Evette Blasts Greenwood City Leaders for Changing Parade Theme
- WYFF4: Parade Theme Sparks Controversy for an Upstate City
- ABC Columbia: Evette Says Greenwood Caves to Political Correctness After City Scraps Parade Theme
- Wikipedia: Christmas Parade
- Google Search: Greenwood Christmas Parade 2025
Author: HERE Greenwood
The GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGreenwood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Greenwood, Greenwood County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Festival of Flowers, Greenwood Community Theatre performances, and agricultural showcases at the Greenwood County Fairgrounds. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Greenwood United Ministry, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as FujiFilm Manufacturing and Self Regional Healthcare. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
