Vallejo’s Mad Hatter Parade Delights Crowds with Whimsy

The streets of Vallejo came alive on December 2, 2023, as the much-anticipated Mad Hatter Parade took center stage, marking its 15th year as a signature event for the city. With a vibrant display of creativity and community spirit, the parade featured an array of characters, including the iconic Mad Hatter, Star Wars figures, and whimsical motor contraptions.

In the lead-up to the parade, festivities commenced at 14:00 in Unity Plaza, offering visitors a holiday market, food options, and entertainment, including fire dancers and an inflatable unicorn park. The parade itself began at 16:30, starting from the intersection of Sacramento and Georgia streets and concluding behind the JFK Library, where a tree-lighting ceremony took place at 18:00.

This year, Vallejo’s Mayor Andrea Sorce, along with Grand Marshal Freddie Stone of Sly and the Family Stone, and Community Grand Marshal Amanda Williams, led the countdown for the lighting of the 50-foot tree adorned with over 3,000 lights. Williams, recognized as a local heroine for her courageous actions in August when she intervened in a knife fight, added a personal touch to the ceremonial event.

Residents and visitors alike braved the elements, with no rain forecasted for the day. Many attendees anticipated the sight of larger-than-life characters from Alice in Wonderland, including towering figures of the Mad Hatter, who were sure to impress. The parade’s whimsical nature is exemplified by the inclusion of Star Wars stormtroopers led by Darth Vader, the Grinch Dance, and imaginative vehicles inspired by the Burning Man festival.

Longtime Vallejo resident and parade organizer Frank Malifrando described the event as akin to a holiday theatrical performance, stating, “It’s like the Nutcracker Suite. You have standard versions and then you have variations.” He emphasized the unique elements that distinguish the Mad Hatter Parade from other local celebrations, such as the celebrity tree-lighting and the diverse performances from local dance groups.

Attendees also enjoyed the accompanying festival in Unity Park, which featured a variety of attractions, including food trucks and a beer and wine pub located near the JFK Library. The festival seamlessly transitioned into a lighted boat parade organized by the Vallejo Yacht Club, further enhancing the festive atmosphere.

Malifrando shared that he drew inspiration for the parade from a childhood trip to Disneyland and noted its growing popularity, attracting thousands from Vallejo and surrounding areas, including Sacramento and San Jose. “One lady told me, ‘I was 12 years old when I first went, and now I’m 25 and I have kids and we go together,’” he recounted, highlighting the event’s lasting impact on families.

A standout feature of the parade was the participation of the Obtainium Works art collective, known for their unique and imaginative vehicles. Shannon O’Hare, the collective’s leader, referred to their creations as “my armada,” which included whimsical designs such as Santa’s Rocket Sled and a motorized teapot. O’Hare has participated in the parade for six years, often seen on stilts as the King of Hearts.

Despite the challenges of organizing and transporting the art cars, O’Hare and his wife, Kathy, dedicate countless hours to ensure their participation. “We run on goodwill and fumes,” he remarked, underscoring the community-driven nature of the event. O’Hare expressed gratitude for the generous support from locals, who contribute donations to help sustain the parade.

Ultimately, Vallejo’s Mad Hatter Parade successfully showcased the city’s creativity and community spirit, solidifying its reputation as one of the most spectacular holiday parades in the Bay Area. With its blend of festive cheer, artistic expression, and engaging performances, the event continues to enchant audiences year after year.