Miracle on Commerce Street

That humongous inflatable Hello Kitty floating above your head isn't a menacing hallucination—it's real life and a surefire sign the holidays are here. On Saturday, more than 350,000 people will descend on Commerce Street to wave to a cavalcade of creatures vying for attention at the Neiman Marcus Adolphus Children's Parade. This year marks 20 Decembers of holiday happiness, fantastically decorated floats, equestrian posses and appearances by favorite friends such as Winnie the Pooh, Bob the Builder and Cinderella, who get their groove on with a slew of school marching bands. Miss America and Miss Texas will hold court (hopefully, no catfights) with dancers and other well-wishers. Up above, a gargantuan balloon-like Frosty the Snowman and Thomas the Tank Engine keep the party going. Televisions in approximately 118 million households will be tuned to the parade. That's probably 117.9 million more than Cavemen got last week, but we digress. The parade will be packed so line up as early as 7 a.m. for a good seat. General admission is free. Parade starts at 10 a.m. Proceeds benefit Child Life Department at Children's Medical Center. More information is at childrensparade.com.
Sat., Dec. 1, 10 a.m., 2007