T-L Photo/CARRI GRAHAM Project Forward members Melissa Yeso and Donnie Mew stop for a photo while hanging lights on a Christmas tree in preparation of the Martins Ferry Christmas Parade, set for 6:30 p.m. Friday.

MARTINS FERRY — The Martins Ferry Volunteer Fire Department’s annual Christmas parade will make its way through the Purple City on Friday.

The parade is set for 6:30 p.m., with lineup beginning at 4:30 p.m. near Jacob & Sons Quality Meats on Center Street.

For close to 40 years, the fire department has helped the community ready for the holiday season by spreading cheer through its annual parade. Jack Regis Jr., parade chairman for the MFVFD, said this is the second full parade since the COVID-19 pandemic began. He said they are anticipating a good turnout from participants and spectators alike this year. He said they typically have between 75 and 90 floats and vehicles participate in the parade, depending on the weather.

“All the local fire departments, church groups, civic groups, businesses are certainly invited to participate. We’ve gotten a good response from the invitations we’ve sent out so far. We’re excited. It’s a good kickoff to the winter season,” he said.

The parade route is as follows: Center Street to Zane Highway, south on Zane Highway to Hickory Street, east on Hickory to Fourth Street, north on Fourth Street to Hanover Street, west on Hanover Street to end near the small park area adjacent to the Axe Hole.

“All the businesses, civic organizations and private nonprofits always support the parade very favorably every year. We wouldn’t be able to do it without them. We’re definitely appreciative of their support for not only the Christmas parade, but all the various events we hold throughout the year such as Betty Zane Days,” Regis said.

Regis said they have a few additions this year including an ice skating rink that will be available from 1-5 p.m. at Fifth and Hanover streets.

More excitement will follow the parade including the lighting of the city Christmas tree, fireworks, food vendors and the presence of a live reindeer.

“We’ve made it a little bit bigger this year. We’re trying some new things out and gauge the response to see if we can do it bigger next year,” he said.

The Christmas tree will be lit directly after the conclusion of the parade, which is usually around 7:15 p.m.

“As soon as Santa Claus passes the announcer’s table, we’ll organize and do the tree lighting,” Regis said.

Fireworks will be let off afterward near the city building.

Project Forward, a nonprofit organized to revitalize the downtown, along with Carolina Furniture have added a little something special this year with the addition of a reindeer who will appear in the parade and will be available afterward for petting and photos at the gazebo located at Fifth and Hanover streets.