After battling the last two years with COVID-19 safety requirements, organisers of the Barossa Christmas Parade are excited to officially announce that the event will return this year, bigger and better than ever.

Barossa Christmas Parade organisers, Rory and Bev Champion said the parade will go ahead on December 2.

“It feels really nice to have it back,” Rory said.

“To plan something and not have a fear that it is a waste of time and it could be cancelled because of the virus, is a good feeling.”

Last year event organisers deferred making a decision, hoping that restrictions would change last minute.

Unfortunately, based on previous restrictions and the necessary procedures and compliance in conjunction with a management plan being approved, they could not see the situation changing.

Rockford Wines, Tanunda will be this year’s major sponsor.

Mr David Kalleske of Rockford Wines acknowledged that Rory and Bev have done a fantastic job over the years to pull the parade together.

“The last parade we did in 2019 was fantastic,” David said.

“It was an enormous success.

“We estimated between 8,000 to 10,000 people attended.

“However, this year we would love to see even more people.

“We can’t wait to get it happening again this year because after two cancellations we want to make it the best event that we can.”

Bev Champion told The Leader that there are a lot of activities to look forward to.

“We will have free face painting for the children, animal displays, an array of food, market stalls and more,” she added.

“If anyone is interested in entering a float in the parade, they can contact us.”