Conversations during brunch with friends often run the gamut between life updates, deep conversations, and walks down memory lane. When Bellevue friends Kristi Gooden, Tammi Schneiderman, Christy Mullen, and Jodi Owens got together one morning in January, the chatter turned toward Bellevue itself – and the opportunity to create a community holiday gathering rooted in togetherness, joy, and inclusivity.
As mothers and involved community members, the group shared anecdotes about traveling to neighboring towns to participate in holiday traditions with their families. They thought, “Why not us?”
“Why doesn’t Bellevue have a parade? Surely, we’re small enough to be able to put on a really nice one,” Jodi Owens remarks.
Leveraging each other’s strengths and passions – Kristi, a 25-year Bellevue resident and a Christmas baby herself; Tammi, a mom of three in an interfaith family; Christy, a resident since childhood with family roots in the Bellevue Chamber; and Jodi, a mom of three passionate about blending holiday cheer and unity – the planning began. Soon, the powers that be were bought into bringing this dream to life.
The inaugural “Holidays in the Vue” parade will have 60 festive participants riding on floats, cruising in vehicles, or marching their way from Bellevue Middle School to One Bellevue Place. From area schools to local businesses and presenting sponsorship from Allegiance Pressure Washing, the community has rallied in its excitement to bring holiday cheer to the streets of Bellevue.
Rumor has it, the parade has caught the attention of Mr. and Mrs. Claus themselves, who may even make an appearance.
“We wanted something that brings everyone together,” says Tammi Schneiderman, whose family celebrates both Christmas and Hanukkah. “It’s important that everyone feels included and excited to take part in this event.”
Parade participants will be handing out candy and spreading plenty of holiday cheer, all with a goal to create lasting memories for Bellevue residents. And, hopefully, offer an annual tradition for families to celebrate togetherness each December.
“This year, it’s about making sure the parade is a success,” Kristi shares. “But as it grows, we want to create more. We’re planting the seeds for something that can really blossom.”
The all-volunteer group of organizers is hopeful to create new traditions for Bellevue families for years to come, both with the parade and subsequent holiday events. But spectators are key to this event’s success, so come one, come all!
The parade route has plenty of great viewing opportunities from grassy parks to accessible sidewalks, and early arrival is encouraged to secure your spot. Roads will be closed during the parade and will reopen on a rolling basis. The fun kicks off at 10 a.m.
At its heart, "Holidays in the Vue" is about unity, joy, and community—a chance to celebrate all of the people and places that make Bellevue special. So, dance along to the marching band, and join in the magic of this new hometown holiday tradition.
For more information for spectators, volunteers, or sponsors, visit HolidaysInTheVue.com.
“It’s important that everyone feels included and excited to take part in this event.”