(CALVERT CITY, Ky.) — A familiar face in the community will take center stage this weekend as Colette Serrato leads one of Kentucky’s longest-running holiday traditions.
Serrato, who manages the Calvert City Food Giant, has been selected as grand marshal of the 66th annual Calvert City Lions Club Christmas Parade. The honor recognizes her years of service to the community and her dedication to helping local residents and organizations.
“Colette is a face in Calvert City that everyone knows,” said Lions Club President Jeremy Powell. “She keeps our main food service running, and she is always willing to help local organizations get the supplies they need.”
Serrato’s connection to Calvert City began in 2003 when she started working at what was then Piggly Wiggly. She has remained with the store through its transition to Food Giant, rising through the ranks from deli worker to meat department manager and finally to store manager in 2018.
Though she didn’t move to the city until 2015, Serrato said the decision was easy. She credits Calvert City’s welcoming atmosphere, well-maintained public spaces, and active community calendar as key factors that made it feel like home.
“I am truly grateful to be chosen as grand marshal,” Serrato said. “Calvert City has given my family so much. I love being part of this community.”
A mother of three, Serrato balances her management responsibilities with family life. Her eldest son Diego, 21, recently joined the electrical workers union IBEW 816. Daughter Lilyanna, 18, is exploring career options, while youngest son Camden competes on the Marshall County Archery team.
The Lions Club praised Serrato’s neighbor-first attitude and steady presence in the community, qualities organizers said embody the spirit of the holiday season.
The parade anchors a full weekend of festivities beginning Friday evening with Light Up Calvert City at Memorial Park from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. The event features live music, carnival games, popcorn, food trucks, free hot chocolate, and a tree lighting ceremony at 6 p.m.
Saturday morning brings the Calvert City Christmas Bazaar, where more than 140 vendors will set up at various locations throughout town from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Shoppers can browse offerings from local vendors, artisans, and holiday specials across the city.
The parade steps off at 6 p.m. Saturday, with lineup beginning at 5 p.m. at Pathway Baptist Church. The route travels along Fifth Avenue from Highway 95 to Oak Park Boulevard. Afterward, the Lions Club will host families for complimentary hot dogs, drinks, and photos with Santa.
The Calvert City Lions Club has deep roots in the community, having helped fund the city’s first fire truck and worked to install its original street signs decades ago. This year alone, the organization screened nearly 2,000 children through its KidSight vision program and donated more than $10,000 to residents in need.
For details on parade participation or weekend events, visit calvertcityky.gov or follow the Calvert City Lions Club on social media.
