The J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center (JIRDC) will host its 49th annual holiday parade on Thursday, December 4, 2025, starting at 3 p.m. The event is open to the public and features the theme “Storybook Holiday Parade.” Community members are invited to attend, with marching bands, fire trucks, floats, and a special appearance by Santa Claus planned.
This year’s Grand Marshal is Kyle Petty, known for his career as a NASCAR driver, racing analyst, author, musician, and philanthropist. Petty currently provides race coverage for NBC and hosts a digital series on the Motorsports on NBC YouTube Channel and the Peacock app. He also leads the primetime series “Dinner Drive with Kyle Petty.” Beyond his media work, Petty is active in philanthropy through his nonprofit Victory Junction, which offers camping experiences for children with chronic or serious medical conditions in North Carolina. He is also the son of NASCAR Hall of Famer Richard “The King” Petty.
JIRDC has created a designated “Quiet Zone” during the parade for guests who are sensitive to loud sounds or have disabilities. This area will be marked with lime green tape and located past the circle drive between two display areas.
After the parade concludes, visitors can view a holiday light display that will be illuminated each night from 5:30 to 10 p.m., continuing until December 31.
To ensure safety and accessibility at the event, one-way traffic will be implemented around the center’s perimeter road starting at noon. Staff will direct visitors to parking areas; spaces for handicapped parking will be clearly marked while restricted zones will be indicated as well. Traffic control personnel will manage vehicle flow throughout campus.
Certain entrances to JIRDC grounds will have restricted access during event hours: the second entrance closes at noon and front entrance access is limited to non-emergency vehicles from 2:30 p.m. Parade participants will receive guidance upon arrival regarding staging locations. Roadside parking along Enola Road is not allowed; all guests are asked to use campus parking lots due to ongoing construction that limits available spaces.
Parents are reminded not to drop off young children without adult supervision and should arrange meeting points following the parade.
Those interested in participating can email jirdc.parade@dhhs.nc.gov for further details.
“JIRDC reserves the right to cancel the parade based on the safety and well-being of the residents we serve.”
The J. Iverson Riddle Developmental Center operates under North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) Division of State Operated Healthcare Facilities and serves individuals with intellectual disabilities.
