Parade will follow the traditional downtown route beginning at 6th Street/North Washington Avenue
Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) trooper Adam Cothron has been chosen to serve as Grand Marshal of the 2025 Cookeville Christmas Parade, set for Friday, Dec. 19, at 7 p.m.
“Lt. Cothron will lead the parade down Broad Street as the community comes together to celebrate the hope, peace and healing that Christmas offers,” according to The Cookeville Christmas Parade Committee.
Before joining the THP in 2015, Lt. Cothron served as a Deputy Sheriff with the Trousdale County Sheriff’s Office.
“Throughout his career, he has demonstrated unwavering courage, integrity, and a deep commitment to safeguarding the people of Tennessee. His leadership and steady presence have made a lasting and meaningful impact across the Upper Cumberland region,” according to a release.
On July 19, 2024, Cothron was critically injured in a shooting in Cookeville.
“While the incident deeply affected the community, it also sparked an extraordinary outpouring of love, unity and prayer from families, churches and neighbors throughout Tennessee,” according to the Committee.
Following that attack, the region’s support for Cothron and his family and his recovery story is a powerful testament to “resilience and to the strength of a community that stands together in challenging times.”
Photo by Josh Harrison on Unsplash.
“Trooper Adam Cothron’s journey has shown us that hope can rise even in the hardest moments,” said Tennessee Highway Patrol Captain Billy Pierce. “Adam’s courage, perseverance, and the overwhelming support from this community reflect the true spirit of Christmas. It is an honor to have him lead this year’s Cookeville Christmas Parade.”
Along with floats and participants, Santa himself is set to close the parade.
“Santa will close the parade in his traditional place of honor, spreading joy, wonder and Christmas cheer to children and families lined along the route. His appearance is sure to be one of the most anticipated moments of the night,” according to the release.
The priority, according to the parade organizers, is to seek to center the true meaning of the season, including:
- The birth of Jesus Christ
- The hope He brings
- The light that shines even in difficult times
“Families, churches, local organizations and visitors will gather to celebrate faith, joy, and the gift of community,” according to the release. “Due to strong interest and safety priorities, the Cookeville Christmas Parade Committee will select entries that best fit the family-friendly theme. Everyone is invited to join us along the route as spectators.”
The parade will follow the traditional downtown route beginning at 6th Street/North Washington Avenue and concluding at Depot Street. Groups wishing to participate may obtain an application HERE.
The Cookeville Christmas Parade entry deadline is Dec. 12, at noon.
For more information, visit www.RememberTheReasonCookeville.com.
Photo via the State of Tennessee.
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