Description: In 1903, after many years of struggling in business, Milton S. Hershey returned to his birth site a successful entrepreneur at last. It was here that he built his chocolate factory, model town, school for orphaned children and sevral tourist attractions. Since his death in 1945, Mr. Hershey's legacy has continued to thrive within an ever-changing world. The Hershey Centennial Grande Feature Parade was a delightful commemoration of his loving community service.
Showcased as "A Century of Success", the parade was a replay of the last 100 years of this town built on chocolate. Divided into decade segments from 1900 to 2000, it was perhaps the showiest, proudest, three and a half hours ever spent! Local celebrities sailed by on beautiful floats tossing out free toys and candy for everyone. Great bands in period costume gave touching tributes to American war heros. Local vendors and sponsors donned character costumes and puttered around in funny little cars. Of course, all of the Hershey characters were on hand to entertain. It all made for a once in a lifetime experience. There was even a horse-drawn calliope!
I almost feel as though I've been spoiled for any other parade I might attend in the future. After a wonderful spectacle like this, it seems that the only successor lies here in Hershey--100 years from now.
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