OAKLEAF – No matter where you go on Saturday, Dec. 13, expect a lot of holiday cheer – and traffic.
Especially around Oakleaf.
The third annual Oakleaf Christmas Parade, hosted by Oakleaf Community Events, will traverse through the Oakleaf Plantation area, spreading holiday cheer and community spirit.
However, it comes with some concerns. Added with other events, it will stretch county resources and the patience of some revelers due to limited parking.
The parade route starts at the Oakleaf Village Amenity Center, 845 Oakleaf Plantation Pkwy., right at the roundabout, and ends at Oakleaf High, 4035 Plantation Oaks Blvd.
Since the route includes the Millstone Village Condominiums and the gated Briar Oaks Community, parking off Oakleaf Plantation Parkway isn’t allowed because the roadways must be kept clear so emergency vehicles can pass.
Food trucks and vendors will set up, and local businesses, schools, churches, community groups and residents will stage the parade at the amenities center at 4 p.m. The parade will start at 6:30 p.m.
To participate in the parade, register by Dec. 1 at the Oakleaf Community Events’ Facebook page.
The Clay County Sheriff’s Office is bracing for its busiest day in history. In addition to the Oakleaf parade, the agency will also have to monitor parades in Middleburg, Keystone Heights, Penney Farms and the Whitey’s Fish Camp Boat Parade.
Additionally, Hometown Holiday in the Park at Clarke House Park in Orange Park, Christmas in the Village at the Clay County Fairgrounds and four Wreaths Across America ceremonies are scheduled for Dec. 13.