Grand Marshal James Marchiando Announced
Get ready for the Old Town Goleta Holiday Parade on Saturday, December 6 at 6:00 p.m.! Presented by Fuel Depot and Elks Lodge, the parade is a cherished community tradition featuring floats, bands, and performances that light up Hollister Avenue from Orange to Kinman.
Join the festive magic! Whether you want to volunteer, march in the parade, or showcase your business or organization, help make this year’s celebration unforgettable. Sign up now as the parade participant deadline is November 21. Don’t miss your chance to spread holiday cheer, connect with neighbors, and create lasting memories in the heart of Goleta.
Additionally, sponsorship opportunities are still available for businesses looking to support this wonderful community event and gain visibility during the holiday season. The event also raises funds for the Greater Goleta Santa Barbara Lions Club’s sight and hearing programs in local schools.
The Lions Club is proud to announce Mr. James Marchiando as the Grand Marshal. Born and raised in the Goleta Valley, Mr. Marchiando is a lifelong resident whose roots run deep in local agriculture and community life. He grew up on a 10-acre lemon ranch on Yaple Avenue and San Marcos Road, originally owned by his mother, a member of the Cavaletto family. A graduate of Goleta Union School, La Colina Junior High, and Santa Barbara High School (Class of 1950), Mr. Marchiando went on to earn a degree from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo in 1955.
Throughout his life, Mr. Marchiando has been dedicated to farming, family, and community. He helped start a citrus nursery with his brother in 1953, operated a local egg business that supplied many Goleta stores and restaurants, and later transitioned into greenhouse farming.
He had also been an active member of the Santa Barbara County Farm Bureau and a longtime participant in the local Early Day Gas Engine and Tractor Club, showcasing vintage tractors and rope making at Stow House’s Fourth of July celebrations for more than 40 years.
Mr. Marchiando will proudly drive his 19594-30 John Deere tractor during the parade, pulling a 20-foot trailer carrying several of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren – celebrating four generations of local family heritage.
Both the Lions Club and the City of Goleta are thrilled to honor Mr. Marchiando with the well-deserved recognition of Grand Marshal. His life and legacy reflect the heart of what makes up Goleta – family, hard work, and community spirit!
For more information and to be a part of the parade, go to goletaholidayparade.org or email goletaholidayparade@gmail.com.
Mr. Marchiando pictured on his 19594-30 John Deere tractor with his grandchildren