ORLEANS– The Orleans Chamber of Commerce has announced that the upcoming Dogwood Parade on April 26th will feature a special tribute to the Orleans Bulldogs and their coaches, alongside previously announced co-Grand Marshals honoring Vietnam Veterans.
The announcement comes after the Orleans Bulldogs’ state championship victory last Saturday, prompting the Chamber to include them in the parade’s honors. Chamber Executive Director Robert Henderson encourages the community to attend the parade and celebrate these two significant groups. “We want this year’s homecoming celebration to be one of the best,” he stated.

Jennifer and Neil Blanton will return as Parade Chairmen, overseeing the event that will commence at 2 p.m. through the streets of the Dogwood Capital. The Chamber is still accepting entries for the parade and invites community participation. Entry forms are available at The Orleans Progress Examiner, the Orleans Town Hall, and online at the festival’s website.
This year’s Dogwood Festival marks its 55th anniversary. It celebrates the blooming of dogwood trees with a week-long event from April 19th to April 26th. Over 40 events and activities are planned under the theme Dogwoods Thrive in 2025.
For more festival details, entry forms, and event chair contact information, residents can visit the newly updated website, www.orleansdogwoodfestival.com, or the Orleans Dogwood Festival Facebook page, which is regularly updated with 2025 information.


