The sun may shine as you begin the trek to watch a winter parade and it doesn’t take long for the air temperature to plummet! When clouds block out the sun, the wind picks up. Chilly temperatures make your ears prickly and your feet numb. Standing in one spot for any length of time exacerbates the cold. Eventually you may get the light bulb idea that you need to void your bladder! Caveat: before leaving the warmth of your home — prepare yourself for unexpected winter contingencies.
Ground Contact
Prevent wetness from invading your footwear. Choose a pair of shoes, or boots, that keep your feet warm and dry. Don’t even think about wearing tennis shoes, sandals, or flip-flops to a parade; your feet will thank you for it.
Creature Comfort
Thwart winter weather from spoiling your parade experience. Dress in layers and make the outermost layer a lightweight and waterproof hooded-jacket; you can tie it around your waist when warm temperatures persist.
Supplemental Warmers
Protect your head, ears, and hands from the biting cold of a winter day. A hat with ear flaps or a woolen stocking cap will help to retain body heat and keep your ears warm and snuggly. Woolen socks help to insulate and give your feet a comfortable cushion on which to walk. Wear gloves or mittens; these help keep your fingers warm and nimble even in biting winds.
Stoke the Fire
Insert a few candy bars into the pockets of your jacket. These “emergency rations” will not only taste good later on but will help to raise your body temperature and combat winter chill. Carry hot cocoa in an insulated thermos; many such containers come complete with a shoulder strap.
Location, Location, Location
Arrive early at a predesignated site; preferably on a corner that allows you to see the parade members coming toward you and going away too. Pick a place that allows for access to a rest room available to the public.