All Vehicle East Hill Sleigh Ride

article by RYAN WIGGINS

One of the favorite holiday traditions in East Hill is the annual All Vehicle East Hill Sleigh Ride, hosted by The Wiggins Family to raise money for the local non-profit organization, Gulf Coast Kid’s House.

Neighbors and friends are invited to decorate their golf carts, cars, trailered boats, wagons, trailers, dog leashes, scooters, bikes, and more for a fun nighttime holiday processional through the neighborhood.

The event is free and open to everyone, though participants and spectators are encouraged to donate to the Gulf Coast Kid’s House through the event’s GoFundMe page. It also relies on local sponsors to help cover some minor costs such as hiring of police to help with the parade route.

Those participating in the processional must light themselves or their vehicles (this is for fun but also for safety since some of the streets are quite dark) and must be able to maintain a speed of 5 mph.

The parade, which starts at 5:30pm on a midDecember Saturday and lasts about an hour, begins at the Bayview Community Center. From there it winds through the East Hill neighborhood for the many spectators to enjoy. Check out the parade route to pick out the best spot for your family and friends.

If you are interested in participating or sponsoring, or simply wish to learn more about this event, please reach out to Ryan Wiggins at EastHillSleighRide@gmail.com.

Sleigh Ride Parade Route

1. Start at Bayview Park, head north on 20th Ave.

2. Right on Mallory St.

3. Left on Whaley Ave.

4. Right on Osceola Blvd., merge onto Yates Ave.

5. Left on Blackshear Ave.

6. Left on 18th Ave.

7. Right on Lakeview Ave.

8. U-Turn at 13th Ave.

9. Right on 18th Ave.

10. Left on Blount St., finish at Bayview Park