Picher's Annual Parade Revives Spirit of a Ghost Town

Every December, the once-thriving town of Picher, Oklahoma, comes alive for the 'Coming Home for Christmas' parade, drawing former residents back to celebrate their shared history. This event, now in its 11th year, allows attendees to reconnect with their roots in a town that was once home to over 14,000 people before its decline due to mining-related contamination. The parade features local schools, classic vehicles, and community spirit, transforming the abandoned landscape into a festive gathering. This tradition highlights the resilience of the community and serves as a poignant reminder of Picher's toxic legacy, as it sits atop one of the nation's most notorious Superfund sites.

Key Details: • The parade occurs annually on the first Saturday of December. • Location: Picher, Oklahoma, starting at the abandoned auction house on Connell Street. • The event features local schools, vehicles, and community members celebrating their heritage. • Picher was once a booming mining town before becoming a Superfund site due to contamination.