The Downtown St. Charles Partnership, organizers of the St. Charles Electric Christmas Parade, revealed today that this year’s parade had a record turnout, with approximately 15,000 people in attendance.
 
David Richards, executive director of the Downtown Partnership, said that mild temperatures, low wind and precipitation, and a growing reputation for excellence were some of the reasons for the exceptionally high turnout.
 
“We’re also grateful to be the beneficiary of a lot of wonderful coverage by all the local media,” Richards added. “The publicity we received really informed our citizens of all the many things that were going on in downtown St. Charles the weekend of Nov. 28 and 29, including the parade.
 
“This was also a record year for the parade in terms of number of sponsors,” said Richards. “Many of these sponsor-partners cross-promoted their participation in the parade, which also helped increase awareness and the number of attendees this year.”
 
The mission of the Downtown St. Charles Partnership is to “enhance the economic viability and to preserve the character and beauty of downtown St. Charles.”

In addition to business recruitment, business assistance and downtown preservation, the Downtown St. Charles Partnership produces the St. Charles Fine Art Show, Sister’s Weekend and, in conjunction with the Park District, Sculpture in the Park and Concerts in the Park, among other events.
 
To learn more about the Downtown Partnership or to acquire information regarding membership, volunteer opportunities or events, visit www.dtown.org or call (630) 513-5386.