The grand marshals of the City of Troy Christmas Parade were announced Monday.

Students representing the four elementary schools in the City of Troy will be honored at the holiday parade in downtown Troy on Nov. 28.

“We are excited to announce the four grand marshals for the 2011 City of Troy Christmas parade,” said Janet Motes, a member of the parade committee. “The grand marshals are Mya Richardson, first grade, Troy Elementary School; Michael Vaughn, kindergarten, New Life Christian Academy; Gavin Wade, second grade, Covenant Christian School; and Katie Wilkins, first grade, Pike Liberal Arts School.

Motes said the students in grades K-2 in the four elementary schools were invited to submit their names for the random drawing that would determine the grand marshals.

“The grand marshals will get to ride on the float with Mayor Jimmy Lunsford and the city council members,” Motes said. “They will also get to help the mayor with the lighting of the city’s six Christmas trees. So, this will be very exciting for them.”

The City of Troy Christmas Parade is set for 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 28. There is still time to register an entry for the annual parade that kicks off the Christmas season in Pike County. The Troy Christmas parade will be the first of three Christmas parades in the county.

The cities of Brundidge and Goshen will also host parades. The Brundidge parade will be on Nov. 29 and the Goshen parade on Dec. 2.

Shelia Jackson, Troy’s director of tourism, said a large crowd is expected in downtown Troy for the Christmas parade.

“The city’s Christmas parade is a highlight of the year,” Jackson said. “We will have a huge parade. Already we have 80 entries and expect many more. We are extending the entry deadline until 10 a.m. on Monday.”

Those who would like to enter the parade may do so by calling 334-670-6058.

“We always have huge and enthusiastic crowds,” Jackson said. “We expect to have the downtown area packed for all of the fun and excitement of our Christmas Parade. We invite everyone in Troy and the Pike County area to join us.”

Parade lineup is at 5 p.m. on Elm Street. The street will be blocked at that time and will reopen when the parade entries are clear.

Santa Claus will be in the parade and stay around to hear the wishes of all the good little boys and girls.