Carriage parade marks season

For nearly a quarter of a century, spectators in Aiken have lined the street to celebrate autumn. The 24th Aiken Driving Club's Fall Weekend Invitational Drive will provide onlookers with an intimate glimpse of traditional driving that's evocative of another time.

This year's drive will feature nearly 20 carriages, said Joan Gee, Aiken Driving Club fall weekend invitational drive coordinator. The drive will start Saturday at 10:30 a.m. with the carriages departing from Winthrop Field. Those participating in the event will be donning traditional apparel.

The event has long been a favorite of residents and visitors to the area as it celebrates the tradition and pageantry associated with the art of carriage driving, said Pixie Baxter, Aiken Driving Club president.

"It's nostalgic, contemporary and futuristic all at the same time," Baxter said. "The drive will feature animals of all sizes, and there's something for people of all ages. We enjoy the reaction of the spectators. It's a great way to start the season."

Earl Simmons will be on Laurens Street to provide a narrative description about each of the participating horses and carriages as the parade makes its way along the carefully planned route.

The parade will follow the same route as it did last year, and the 24th edition of the event marks the return of a popular feature to the morning's festivities. Spectators may be fortunate enough to happen on ladies in Victorian-era dress enjoying tea, while welcoming the carriages as they make their way through the city.

Contact Ben Baugh at bbaugh@aikenstandard.com.