When Eric Niemann arrived in Philomath in 2012, he couldn’t have imagined that one day he’d be cruising down Applegate Street in a classic white Chevy Corvair among several twinkling floats as the community’s honored guest.
But that’s exactly what’s happening Saturday when the Parade of Lights rolls out at 6 p.m., marking a milestone for both the young, city-hosted holiday tradition and the volunteer who’s become synonymous with community service.
“I was shocked, humbled and honored,” Niemann said of learning he’d been selected as the parade’s first-ever grand marshal — a new designation organizers added to mirror the summer Frolic and Rodeo parade tradition.
For Niemann, the honor puts him in distinguished company.
“I reflected back on some of the grand marshals from the Frolic parades — people like Paul and Lola Skirvin, Mark and Charla Koeppe, the Confederated Tribes of the Siletz, first responders Ken Rueben, Rick Wells — that’s some pretty darn good company and so I’m humbled to be thought of in a similar group,” he said.
City Manager Chris Workman, who coordinates the parade, said the Philomath City Council’s vote for Niemann was unanimous — and well-deserved.
“He’s just such a great continued contributor to our community as a whole and felt like it was only appropriate to honor him,” Workman said. “I think so many times we get busy running along and people do stuff for us and you give a quick thanks and you move on to the next obstacle or the next problem that needs to be tackled. Taking a little bit of time to stop and really show somebody appreciation … for the public to be able to pause and say thank you and recognize them in that way, I think, is a big deal.”
Niemann’s path to community involvement began where many parents’ journeys do — through his children’s activities.
“As my kids grew up and got older, it kind of called me to get involved either through Cub Scouting or the Philomath Youth Activities Club by helping coaching teams,” Niemann said. “Getting involved with their activities was probably my entry point.”
That entry point opened into years of service that touched multiple corners of Philomath life, earning him recognition from a community that doesn’t forget those who give their time. His service included one term as the city’s mayor.
Saturday night, he’ll ride in style courtesy of local resident Scott Orsborn, who’s providing a 1964 Corvair for the occasion.
In its third year, the Parade of Lights will follow a familiar route, starting at the high school and traveling down Applegate Street to South 15th, then turning onto Cedar Street. Floats will disperse at either the rodeo grounds or South 13th, giving spectators plenty of prime viewing real estate along the way.
And yes, Santa Claus will be making his annual appearance — because what’s a holiday parade without the big guy?
For Niemann, who’s watched the parade as a spectator since its 2023 debut, the creativity on display never gets old.
“There have been some real eye-popping floats over the past couple of years since we started it,” he said. “It’s really neat to see what people come up with and how they creatively come up with a float with lights on it.”
That creativity seems particularly fitting for a town that takes its holiday decorating seriously.
“There are so many lights on so many houses all over town with all kinds of different displays,” Niemann observed. “It’s very clear that this is a season of good cheer and bright lights and the fact that we have a Philomath light parade seems very appropriate and well-timed.”
From its inception, organizers have been intentional about making the event welcoming to everyone in the community.
“It’s very intentionally the ‘Parade of Lights’ so that everybody could feel welcomed and feel like they belong here and can celebrate everything that’s great about being in Philomath,” Workman said. “So come out, put on the twinkle lights, put on your costumes, get your vehicles to glow … and come down to celebrate Philomath.”
Mayor Christopher McMorran will be on hand to select the recipient of the parade’s “Most Lit Float Award” — a title that carries significant bragging rights in a community that doesn’t shy away from illuminated competition.
Organizers will accept registrations through Dec. 19 for floats and displays, meaning there’s still time for last-minute inspiration to turn into reality.
“I would encourage everybody that can come out to see the lights and see the creativity,” Niemann said. “It’s relatively new but it’s great to see the community celebrate together and just enjoy the holiday lights and have some fun during the holiday season.”
