On Saturday, community residents in and around Taylor are invited to participate in or view the annual Taylor Christmas parade. The parade will honor Van Wortham, a lifelong Taylor resident and community leader. 

Mayor Christi Hardy said Wortham was heavily involved in the community and loved to volunteer his help to anyone.

“Mr Van farmed, moved dirt, just about anything anyone needed him to do,” said Hardy. “[He] was really well known and well liked by the community.”

Wortham was a local farmer and he organized the first Taylor Christmas parade 10 years ago, leading it on his tractor.

Wortham continued to organize and lead the Christmas parade until his passing in April. Those in the community wish to honor him by continuing this beloved tradition. Wortham’s children will be unable to attend the event but Parade participants will line up at the Taylor Baptist Church no later than 1:30.

Although Wortham may not be present physically, he will be there spiritually. Organizers will have a chosen community member lead the parade of Wortham’s tractor and a letter from Wortham’s daughter giving appreciation to Taylor will be read aloud.

Anyone who wishes to join the parade should bring a float, four-wheeler, bicycle, tractor, classic car, or even just their two legs to the Taylor Baptist Church by 1:30 p.m. on Saturday.

The parade will begin at the church and go down Main Street, loop through Plein Air subdivision and return to the church. 

On Sunday, Taylor will continue the festivities with the Christmas Open House at 5 p.m. in Taylor Town Hall. Hardy said everyone is welcome to celebrate the holidays with Taylor. 

Guests can look forward to the Christmas tree lighting, a visit from Santa Claus, a reading of The Christmas Story and food. 

“Hopefully it’s a very nice weekend for everyone here in Taylor,” said Hardy.