10/23/2026
Community partners are working together to enhance safety at the annual Callithumpian Parade in Decatur on Monday, October 26, 2026. The City of Decatur, Decatur Chamber of Commerce, North Adams Community Schools and Adams Health have joined forces to implement additional safety measures designed to help keep parade attendees, especially children, safe while preserving the fun and excitement of this longstanding community tradition.
New this year, orange and blue traffic cones will be placed every 20 feet along both sides of the parade route to create a visible barrier between spectators and parade participants. Attendees are asked to remain behind the cones and keep the parade route clear throughout the event.
The additional precautions are especially important for children who may be excited to collect candy during the parade. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to remind children to remain behind the cones when retrieving candy and to avoid entering the parade route. Those participating in the parade are also asked to distribute candy only to spectators behind the cones to help prevent children and others from stepping into the path of moving parade entries.
In addition, volunteers representing the partner organizations will wear bright orange reflective safety vests to help monitor crowd safety, provide reminders about the new safety measures, and assist attendees as needed throughout the parade.
Through this collaborative effort, the partners hope to make the Callithumpian Parade a safe, fun and enjoyable event for everyone. Attendees are encouraged to follow the posted safety measures, listen to volunteers, and help keep the parade route clear.
