PAOLI — On Sunday, September 6, the Paoli Fall Festival Parade took to the streets, serving as the final event of the 2026 Paoli Fall Festival and helping bring another year of celebration to a close.
The annual parade featured many familiar faces and organizations from throughout Orange County, including pageant winners, local first responders, the Shriners, Special Olympics Orange County and local businesses.
Paoli Chamber of Commerce board member Josie White-Jones served as the lead organizer for this year’s parade. Her responsibilities included collecting parade entries, coordinating with participants, serving as a day-of contact, confirming the parade map and route, and helping ensure everything was in place for the parade to begin on time.
“My goal from the beginning has been to make this parade the best one yet,” said White-Jones. “We are especially excited to honor our grand marshal this year, the Pride of Paoli.”
The Pride of Paoli served as this year’s grand marshal after winning the 2025 State Championship with its show, “The Tie That Binds.” The honor gave the community an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of the students and recognize the hard work that led to their championship season.
The parade was also an opportunity to recognize the local first responders who serve Orange County throughout the year. Emergency vehicles and personnel made their way along the parade route, giving festivalgoers a chance to show their appreciation for the firefighters, law enforcement officers and other emergency personnel who work to keep the community safe.
The Paoli Fire Department was among those featured in the parade, along with their furry friend, Ember. Ember’s appearance brought an extra dose of personality and excitement to the parade and was a favorite sight for many along the route.
The parade also showcased several Orange County pageant winners, including Miss Orange County Queen Heidi Hickman, Orange County Little Miss Queen Elsie McAdams, Orange County Jr. Miss Queen Macie McDonald, Orange County Jr. Miss Second Runner-Up Kyann Stephens, Orange County Mini Miss Finley Jones, Miss Cinderella Brooke, Jr. Miss Cinderella Gia and Miss Cinderella Theme Wear Sage.
The Shriners also brought their own unique energy and entertainment to the celebration. Known for adding fun and excitement to parades, the Shriners helped create a lively atmosphere as they made their way down Main Street, drawing the attention of spectators of all ages.
Special Olympics Orange County was another important part of the parade, representing the athletes and individuals involved in the organization. Their participation highlighted the importance of inclusion, community involvement and celebrating people of all abilities. As they traveled along the parade route, Special Olympics Orange County added another meaningful reminder of the many organizations and individuals who help make Orange County a strong community.
Looking ahead to another community celebration, Orange County officials and board members also walked in the parade carrying a banner announcing that next year, the Paoli Fall Festival will officially be known as the Orange County Tomato Festival. More information about the festival is expected to be announced soon.
As the final event of the Paoli Fall Festival, the parade provided a chance for the community to come together one last time and celebrate the people, organizations and traditions that make the annual festival a special part of Orange County.
