Torrington council approves permit, fee waiver for Dec. 5 Christmas parade

The Torrington City Council on Nov. 18 approved a special-event permit and waived the associated permit fee for Go Goshen’s 2025 Christmas parade, scheduled for Dec. 5 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., including a street closure of Main Street between 19th and 25th avenues.

Chief Matt Johnson, who outlined the event’s safety plan, said officials will close Main Street at 5 p.m., after business hours, and run the parade from about 6 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. “This is our annual Christmas parade that’s well attended by folks in the community,” Johnson said, adding the department will follow the same traffic and safety plan used in prior years.

Leanne Mattis, representing Go Goshen, said the parade is a community tradition and thanked the Torrington Police Department, fire department and streets crew for support. “I would just like to add, this is just a great event for our community,” she said.

The council discussed notification to affected businesses and whether any firms had objected; Mayor Dobie said businesses along Main Street had been notified and no objections were present at the meeting. Councilman Deal moved to approve the permit and waive associated costs; Councilman Kelly seconded and the motion passed by voice vote with no nays.

The approved action waives the special-event permit fee and associated costs for this parade only; council did not receive or adopt a detailed cost breakdown at the meeting.