"Wonderfulness Parade" this weekend

Anny Newport, locally known as the "Free Toy Fairy" by some around town, has organized a parade for this weekend. The "Wonderfulness Parade," as it is called, is a tradition that has travelled with Newport across Southeast Alaska. In a previous interview with the Wrangell Sentinel, she said that the very first parade took place on Zarembo Island in 1978. After that, it was a common occurrence in Petersburg for many years. Newport moved to Wrangell in 1998. She tried to reorganize the Wonderfulness Parade in the early 2000s, but those did not get the reception she had hoped for and said that they do not count. Last year the Wonderfulness Parade saw a good turnout with over 20 participants.

"I've always liked parades because you can dress up as crazy as you want," she said in that previous interview.

This year will be the "second" annual Wrangell Wonderfulness parade.

Newport said that there is no registration or fees to join the parade. Anyone who wants to be involved just needs to show up at City Dock on Saturday, Aug. 17, at noon. The parade serves no purpose than to just be an excuse for people to dress up, be a little silly, and just have some fun. Everyone is invited to dress up in a costume, decorate a bike, come with their friendly pets, and take part in the parade.

"We're trying to keep it as simple as possible," Newport said. "No competition, no theme."

The parade will go down Front Street and around the SNO building. Anything goes as far as dressing up, she said, with a few exceptions. She requests that participants avoid having any costumes or props that could be construed as an advertisement or a political statement. Musicians are highly encouraged to attend, as well. For any questions regarding the Wonderfulness Parade, Newport can be reached at (907) 305-1255.