While Dowagiac’s Candle-light Christmas Parade is still weeks away, the deadline for business, organizations, churches and others to register to be in the grand procession is Wednesday.

The Candle-light Christmas Parade of the Greater Dowagiac Chamber of Commerce, which is one of southwestern Michigan’s largest holiday events, takes place at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2. Presented by Borgess-Lee Memorial Hospital and the chamber, the parade is part of this community’s holiday celebration, which also includes Christmas Open House Weekend on Nov. 11-13, and Small Business Saturday, Nov. 26.

Co-chairing the parade are Chamber President Kim MacGregor, of Edward Jones, and Vickie Phillipson, program director of the chamber of commerce and Downtown Development Authority. Parade registration forms remain available from the chamber of commerce, located within the historic train depot, or may be accessed by visiting DowagiacChamber.com or its Facebook page.

There is no charge to enter a float or marching unit in the parade.

“Participation is open to everyone, from church groups to school classes or even groups of neighbors, who would like to join the festivities,” Phillipson said.  “Community groups that may not have the resources to construct a float, are encouraged to simply gather together and walk the parade route, caroling by candlelight.  The fellowship of gathering together with friends and family to celebrate this joyous season is what the Christmas parade is all about.”

Corporate sponsors of the celebration also include: Advanced Dermatology, the Business Center of Southwestern Michigan, Casual Tees Inc., Chemical Bank, Cass County COA / Front Street Crossing, Dowagiac Area Federal Credit Union, Dowagiac Area History Museum, Edward Jones’ Office of Kim MacGregor, John A. Vylonis Custom Building, Mahar Insurance, The Timbers of Cass County and Wightman & Associates.