Steve Spurrier named grand marshal of the A Very GNV Holiday Parade

Published on October 05, 2023

Former head coach of the Florida Gators football team, and 1966 Heisman Trophy winner, Steve Spurrier, has been named the grand marshal of the City of Gainesville’s 2023 A Very GNV Holiday Parade.

“It’s a very nice honor,” said Coach Spurrier, noting the surprising fact that he’s served in this capacity only once before – as grand marshal of the 2016 University of Florida homecoming parade.

Coach Spurrier brings to the role of grand marshal a long history with Gainesville, dating back to his arrival as a star recruit in 1963. This personal connection, along with the spirit of celebration and community, adds a special touch to this inaugural year of A Very GNV Holiday Parade.  

“We are absolutely delighted Coach Spurrier is going to be our grand marshal,” said Gainesville City Commissioner Cynthia Chestnut. “We invite everyone to join us for a fun day in Downtown Gainesville.”

A Very GNV Holiday Parade is scheduled on Saturday, Dec. 2. The procession will start at noon, moving from W. University Avenue and Sixth Street and traveling approximately one mile, to end at the Alachua County Public Schools Administration Building at 620 E. University Ave. 

This is the first of several city events that together will usher in the holiday season on Dec. 2, including afternoon activities at Bo Diddley Plaza, followed by the annual Holiday Lights Celebration in the Historic Thomas Center Gardens.

Registration for participation in the parade remains open until Monday, Nov. 13. The registration form, parade rules and additional details can be found online, or picked up at City Hall (200 E. University Ave.) or the Historic Thomas Center (302 NE Sixth St.). For more information, visit the holiday parade webpage.

Pictured above: Steve Spurrier (left) joins Gainesville City Commissioner Cynthia Chestnut and Mayor Harvey Ward before recording a promotional piece for the 2023 A Very GNV Holiday Parade.