Theresa Padgett and Macy Melton emceed a festive downtown parade in Concord, drawing local organizations, municipal units and holiday spectators to Union Street. The event highlighted community groups, local businesses and a ceremonial appearance by grand marshal Greg Walter of Charlotte Motor Speedway.

The parade route featured law-enforcement units and mounted officers — emcees named horses such as Titan and Comet — the Cabarrus County Sheriff's Honor Guard, the city fire pipes-and-drums, student groups and numerous business-sponsored floats. Macy Melton, who said she is the owner of Downtown Dirty, urged attendees to “support your local businesses that are open today.” Padgett opened the event by welcoming attendees and saying, “We welcome you, and we are glad you're here.”

An unidentified speaker used the gathering to address a recent local incident, telling the crowd that “last night, we witnessed a senseless act of violence” and praising police, fire and medical personnel for running toward danger to protect and aid residents. The speaker framed the parade as a sign of the community’s unity and resilience.

Organized youth groups and schools were prominent: the City of Concord Youth Council carried the parade banner, Central Cabarrus JROTC marched, and dance and cheer teams from regional studios and high schools performed. Local nonprofits and service organizations — including the Boys & Girls Club of Cabarrus County, Rowan-Cabarrus Community College EMS education, the Blessing Place and veteran groups — rode or walked as entries and were acknowledged for their community roles.

Sponsors and small businesses were likewise visible. Presentations and floats promoted Explore Cabarrus, TrueCare Pharmacy, F&M Bank, local restaurants and retailers, artisans and seasonal programming. Emcees repeatedly thanked the City of Concord and Parks and Recreation staff for organizing and for the rapid post-parade street cleanup.

Grand marshal Greg Walter received a proclamation and applause for his long-standing ties to the area; Mayor Bill Dush and city council members rode in the parade and were acknowledged from the stage. The parade finished with a traditional appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus, eliciting cheers from the crowd. Padgett and Melton closed the event with seasonal greetings and sponsor acknowledgements.

The parade marked a return of the full Union Street route for the holiday event and provided an opportunity for civic groups, emergency-services units and small businesses to present community programs and holiday messages.