An Iron Triangle Logging truck rumbles though John Day during the 2021 Timber Truckers Light Parade. Iron Triangle’s post and pole plant, located in Seneca, took second place, while the John Day-based location took third.

JOHN DAY — The annual Timber Truckers Light Parade will illuminate the streets of John Day on Saturday, Dec. 10, starting at 6 p.m.

This parade features log trucks, big rigs and work vehicles decked out in holiday lights. There are four categories: timber, commercial, farm and ranch and community/nonprofit.

“Anybody can enter,” said Leslie Traylor, who helps organize the annual event.

There are a few limits: motorcycles are not allowed, and there is no throwing candy from floats.

This year’s theme is “Christmas Memories.” Entrants can sign up at the parade starting point — the former Grant Western Lumber Co. site just west of John Day — from 3-5:30 p.m. The entry fee is $10.

The route heads east on Main Street to Third Street Extension before looping back to the Elks Lodge, where those who decorated an entry for the parade can join a donation-only dinner.

“That’s where we award the prizes people have donated — we’re so appreciative of the community,” Traylor said. “We have really nice prizes — we always buy local.”

Every October, the organizing committee sends out letters asking for donations. Cash prizes will be given for first, second and third place in each category. Also, every driver receives a bag containing several gifts.

This parade has been a John Day tradition for about 30 years, and in the early days would draw as many as 100 entries. Traylor said most years now have 25 to 30 illuminated rigs.

“It’s a lot of fun,” she said. “It’s the welcoming in of the Christmas season.”

For information, call Traylor, 541-620-4032.