SPOKANE, Wash. – Residents gathered for the annual Torchlight Parade, a cherished Spokane tradition that lights up the streets with community spirit.
Kat Hawker, a long-time attendee, has a personal connection to the event.
“I have been here lots and lots of times from when I was in high school and I performed in it with the high school band and my oldest daughter was a lilac princess,” said Hawker.
She cherishes the vibrant atmosphere, saying, “The kids playing in closed streets; I mean, you can’t get this in any other place or any other time.”
For Alyssa Breedlove, a high school sophomore representing Miss Davenport, the parade offered a new experience.
“We applied and then there was an interview and they had to make sure that I was suitable for the job. Then, I got accepted. I was really excited,” she explained.
Her float, titled “Chase Your Dreams,” featured Sonic, a character symbolizing speed and drive.
“We wanted to pick a theme that would be recognized by a lot of different generations and age groups,” Alyssa stated.
Alyssa expressed pride in representing her community, saying, “Really, really proud to be representing our community because it’s just a great place to live and people are nice and it’s just like a family.”
The parade provided memorable moments for Alyssa, as she shared, “There have been a couple of times where little girls have come up to me when I’m in my big dress and they’re like, oh my goodness, a princess.”
For Kat, the parade was a chance to relive past experiences.
“I love seeing the high school bands and watching them perform and seeing if I recognized any of the students,” she said, adding that it’s fun to see students grow.
The Torchlight Parade continues to unite Spokane, weaving together stories from different generations.
