Here comes the parade!
Fans gave the Clokey family, Gumby and a 60-foot jolly, green inflatable version of the world’s original clayboy a warm welcome as he made his way down Hollywood Boulevard in the annual Christmas parade on November 27, 2015. The giant helium filled Gumby was wrangled by volunteers from the Make a Wish foundation. The Gumby mascot and the Clokey family (creators of Gumby and the Gumby TV series) waved to the crowds from a red hot vintage convertible. The Clokeys, and their partners NJ Croce and NCircle Entertainment donated hundreds of bendable Gumby toys and DVDs to Toys for Tots.
Here comes Gumby.
Enthusiastic fans lined the streets of Hollywood for the parade while millions more viewed it from the comfort of their homes. It was broadcast on the CW, the Hallmark Channel, American Forces Network, and thousands of local stations throughout the country during the holiday season.
Gumby was a little star struck hobnobbing with celebrities in the green room, and they were just as thrilled to meet him. Boxer Oscar de La Hoya went a round with Gumby. Grumpy Cat enjoyed being held by Gumby, but still wouldn’t crack a smile.
The parade was hosted by Erik Estrada (of CHIPs fame) and Laura McKensie (TV travel expert). Special guest hosts included Montel Williams, Dean Cain, Elizabeth Stanto and Garrett Clayton.
Gumby cuddles with Grumpy Cat
La Hoya boxes with Gumby.
While the night air was chilly, energetic performances by favorite performers warmed spirits in a crowd-pleasing concert that kicked off the parade. Clay Aiken, Taylor Hicks, Alexander Jean, India Arie, Daughtry, Diana DeGarmo, Candice Glover, Kat Graham, Sean Kingston, Heather Russell, Ruben Studdard, Ace Young, the Masters of Illusion from the CW, and the Band of Merry Makers entertained the cheering crowds before the parade.
Music, equestrians, balloons, star cars, costumed characters and marching bands made for a magical evening for all ages.
See you there next year!