Foley, Ala. — (OBA) —  Although Christmas may still be months away, the city of Foley is already planning for the holiday season. The Foley City Council has approved the purchase of nine new reindeer to pull Santa's sleigh at the city's annual Christmas Parade. The parade rolls through downtown Foley each December and has long been a highlight of the holiday season. It is one of several festive events the city hosts each year.

On August 20, 2026, the council gave the green light to the new reindeer purchase after a recommendation from the Foley Revitalization and Beautification Advisory Board. The board reviewed the condition of the current reindeer and determined that replacements were needed. The reindeer on the float are 45 years old.

The Foley Kiwanis Club organizes the annual Christmas Parade. The parade features a float with Santa Claus in a sleigh pulled by nine reindeer. The reindeer represent the traditional eight from "The Night Before Christmas," plus Rudolph.

Brenda Shambo, the city's liaison to the Revitalization and Beautification Advisory Board, addressed council members on the importance of the tradition. "The Foley Christmas Parade is the city's only Christmas parade and a cherished tradition that brings families, businesses, schools, and community organizations together," she said. "The Kiwanis reindeer have become a familiar and beloved part of that tradition. New reindeer would allow us to continue creating these special memories for children and families for many years to come."

The city and the Kiwanis Club are now developing plans for the original reindeer. Officials hope to display them in a museum or another public venue to honor their long role in Foley's Christmas celebrations.

The Christmas Parade is part of a busy holiday weekend in Foley. Other events typically held that weekend include Christmas in the Park, the lighting of the Foley Christmas Tree, and the city's Let It Snow event. The city also hosts a Christmas tree decoration contest, with winners announced on Friday evening before the Saturday parade.