Vallejo’s Mad Hatter Festival Thrills Attendees with Dazzling Parade
UPDATE: The Mad Hatter Holiday Festival in Vallejo just transformed the city into a whimsical wonderland as crowds gathered for its 15th annual parade on Saturday night. This spectacular event featured dazzling floats, fire displays, and a vibrant community atmosphere, captivating attendees of all ages.
Organized by Malifrando, this year’s festival saw an impressive turnout, with local businesses and community members rallying behind the event. “It’s extraordinary to see how this has caught on,” Malifrando remarked, noting the increasing enthusiasm from participants and attendees alike, who are now reaching out to him for collaboration.
Diana Buford, attending with her daughter Kiana, expressed her excitement for the event: “She is obsessed with the Grinch! This is a nice family community event, and it’s great to get out of the house every once in a while.” The festival’s family-friendly atmosphere was palpable as children delighted in the lights and characters.
Fire displays and artistic floats were highlights, with the crowd marveling at creations from Obtainium Works, including a stunning fire-spewing Aladdin’s Lamp. “This is a very elaborate, super cool, artistic event,” stated attendee Giti, who praised the joyful vibe among participants.
Vallejo Naval and Historical Museum Executive Director Trevor Allen shared his appreciation for the event’s diversity, stating, “I love that all of Vallejo comes out and shares a different vibe where everyone gets along.” The parade featured a mix of holiday cheer and artistic expression, showcasing the creativity of the community.
Among the standout attractions were dancers, storm troopers, Darth Vader, a Grinch, and members of the Carquinez Quad Squad Roller Derby, who promoted their upcoming tomato jam event on January 31. “The level of artistic input put into this event is very eclectic and represents Vallejo so well,” remarked Roller Derby member Naomi Cooper.
Santa, portrayed by Thomas Bilbo, emphasized the importance of community joy during the holiday season, saying, “It’s fun to kick off the season and remind people to meet others where they are.” His presence brought smiles, particularly to children, who eagerly awaited his arrival.
The festival not only showcased local talent but also fostered a sense of belonging and unity in Vallejo. As Malifrando noted, the festival’s growth over the years reflects its impact on the community, with many expressing gratitude for the joy it brings. “Thank you for doing this. It really does so much for the community,” festival-goers shared, highlighting the emotional significance of the event.
This year’s Mad Hatter Holiday Festival was not just a parade; it was a celebration of creativity, community spirit, and the joy of the season. As the night concluded, attendees left with lasting memories, eagerly anticipating next year’s festivities.
