Waltham homecoming parade returns with added excitement, community spirit

The Waltham High School Homecoming Parade is set for Saturday, Oct. 18, bringing together students, families and community members to celebrate school spirit and local pride. The annual Homecoming Parade returned to Waltham last year after a hiatus during the pandemic.

The annual parade, organized by a volunteer committee led by chair Randy LeBlanc, is scheduled to begin at 12:30 p.m. at 617 Lexington St., home to the former Waltham High School and current Dual Language and Valor schools. The procession will travel along Lexington Street to Bacon Street and then continue to Athletic Field Road, concluding at Leary Field, where the Waltham Hawks will face off against Wayland High School at 2 p.m. in the eagerly anticipated homecoming football game.

Organizers expect approximately 15 student-decorated floats interspersed with classic cars as well as performances from cheerleaders, athletic teams and school organizations. New features this year include the participation of Waltham youth groups and induction of the Waltham High School Athletic Hall of Fame. Student groups will compete for prizes in a float-decorating contest.

Parade organizers work closely with School Superintendent Marisa Mendonsa, Athletic Director Nicole Viele and advisor and teacher Lauren Irving to coordinate the event and encourage school-wide involvement. 

The parade is free and open to the public, with attendees urged to line the parade route and join the festivities at Leary Field.

Student groups interested in joining the parade are asked to contact Ms. Irving at Waltham High School for registration and float assignments. 

The parade committee is currently seeking sponsorships to help support float decorations for students. For more details, contact LeBlanc at 617-719-5572, Bill Hanley at 617-594-2188 or fundraising lead Alexia Baugniet at alexia.baugniet@aol.com.