PARIS — Oxford Hills Chamber of Commerce officials are discussing whether to change the route of the annual Christmas Parade this year so it begins in Norway and ends in Paris.

“We’re thinking about the possibility. It used to be done that way. It mixes things up,” said John Williams, executive director of the chamber.

He said there have been some problems with staging the large parade from High Street in Paris. Because of the number of floats, they wind around to Western Avenue as they wait to take off down the parade route.

“We’re trying to think of ways to streamline the process. No matter what we do it will work out fine,” Williams said.

Work on the event began in August when calls started to come in from local businesses and organizations looking for information.

This year’s theme is Critters and Characters of Christmas.

Williams said the chamber is looking forward to what people come up with for float ideas. The parade will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 24.

There will also be the second annual Festival of Trees on Friday through Sunday, Nov. 23-25, at the Four Seasons Function Hall on Route 26 in Paris.

Santa Claus will also be on hand throughout the festival for parents to bring their children to meet him. They will also be able to take pictures with Santa for free.

“We think it will be extremely successful this year. We’re excited about that,” he said.

Williams said the chamber is also trying to encourage businesses to provide specials and discounts during the weekend to boost the economy.

ldixon@sunjournal.com