Tarentum-Brackenridge parade set to kick off holiday season; Oscar Meyer Wienermobile will be there

The Oscar Meyer Wienermobile will be parked under the Tarentum Bridge on Saturday morning for anyone who wants to snap selfies with the quirky hot dog-shaped bus.

The orange and yellow vehicle is a fan favorite at the Tarentum-Brackenridge holiday parade, scheduled to step off at 1 p.m.

In its 16th year, the parade serves as the unofficial holiday kickoff in both boroughs.

“Bringing the spirit to all is so important,” said Carrie Fox, president of the Tarentum recreation committee.

“This is a fantastic parade that has it all — fire trucks, marching groups, Shriners, churches, the Highlands High School band, scouts and sports groups.”

Work to coordinate the parade has been going on behind the scenes for months, said Cindy Kish of the Brackenridge recreation committee.

“It requires a lot of communication. After having done this parade for 15 years, all the committee members from both boroughs know their specific jobs,” Kish said. “We all work well together.”

After canceling last year’s parade because of the covid pandemic, Kish said participants responded with enthusiasm this year.

“When we see everyone enjoying the holiday season, all of our work and effort is worthwhile,” Kish said.

The parade route starts along Fifth Avenue in Tarentum, marches down the Corbet Street business district and turns left onto First Avenue into Brackenridge before ending on Morgan Street.

Fox said she would love to bottle the excitement shown by parade attendees.

“When I round the bend onto Corbet Street, it always sends chills down my spine to see all the people and the enthusiasm for the Christmas season,” she said.