Adults’ Parade: Champagne Toast, Dazzling Costumes, Traditional Troupes and a Sea of Feathers

A two-hour delay caused by a surprise thunderstorm the night before only heightened the anticipation at Saturday’s Adults’ Parade and, as the skies cleared and the sun peeked through, the air crackled with renewed energy and an unexpected delight – a celebratory champagne toast in the heart of Post Office Square.

Of course, Parade Grand Marshal William “Champagne” Chandler would have it no other way, as he made his way into the square on foot, preceded by performers announcing his arrival.

“I told everyone today that the sun would be out, and God is good – he wanted everyone to see the splendor and mass,” said Chandler, a repeat King of the Band winner, and veteran of the Elskoe and Associates Troupe. Chandler is also widely known for his stunning costume designs and was, himself, shimmering Saturday in a feathered hat and iridescent blue-green waistcoat.

“I’m so overwhelmed,” he said when asked how he felt about the honor. “I didn’t see this coming – who would have thought,” he quipped.