Grand Marshall: Denver Sister Cities, on 9News Parade of Lights, Featuring the Yatai gifted to Denver in 1964 from its sister city Takayama, Japan.
This year’s 50th Annual 9News Parade of Lights was a night of celebration, culture and friendship as the historic Yatai float, gifted by Takayama, Japan, in 1964, returned to Denver’s streets. For the first time, the Yatai, a symbol of Takayama’s centuries-old festival traditions, participated in the Parade of Lights, leading the parade as part of Denver Sister Cities’ role as Grand Marshal marching with a delegation from Takayama.
Four students from the Takayama Technical High School traveled to Denver, along with two teachers who'll supervise their work. Members of the Takayama Denver Friendship Association, the Japanese counterparts to the Denver Takayama Sister City Committee, along with representatives of the City of Takayama Mayor's Office.
A Warm Welcome at DEN
The journey began Thursday night when the delegation from Takayama arrived at Denver International Airport (DEN). Members of the Denver Sister Cities Takayama Committee welcomed the visitors, including students and teachers from Takayama Technical High School, representatives from the Takayama Denver Friendship Association, and city officials from Takayama. This warm reception set the stage for an unforgettable weekend of cultural understanding and international friendship.
Friday: Rehearsals and Preparation
On Friday, the delegation and Denver volunteers worked together on final adjustments to the Yatai. The float, slightly downsized but every bit as intricate as its counterparts in Takayama, was prepped for its grand appearance. A dress rehearsal allowed participants to practice their roles, and Denver's community members had a chance to see the float come to life.
Saturday: Parade Day
Saturday, December 7th, marked not only the Parade of Lights. The parade was a celebration of the strong cultural ties and mutual respect that have grown between Denver and Takayama since their Sister City relationship was established in 1960—a testament to how far both cities have come in fostering goodwill and understanding. Driving peace not only between cities but also nations.
The morning began early as volunteers and the Crusoe team carefully towed the Yatai to a staging area in a warehouse district. The Denver Police Department provided an escort to the downtown parade route, where 12 floats, including the Yatai, lined up for the evening’s festivities.
Dressed in traditional samurai attire and happi coats, the delegation and volunteers gathered with excitement as they awaited the parade’s kickoff. The crowd was delighted by the unique sound of gongs and traditional music played by the delegation, and many children in the audience had the chance to try out the instruments.
The Takayama delegation also handed out sarubobos (traditional Japanese dolls symbolizing happiness and protection) to the audience, creating moments of connection with Denverites.
A Historic Debut as Grand Marshall
As the Grand Marshall of the parade, Denver Sister Cities led the procession, with the Takayama delegation and Yatai at the forefront. The intricate carvings, vibrant lacquerwork, and cultural richness of the float captivated spectators along the downtown route. The Yatai’s presence showcased the deep friendship between Denver and Takayama, which has flourished for nearly 65 years.
The delegation’s participation made the event even more special. Their traditional music and attire brought an authentic touch of Takayama’s renowned Spring and Fall Matsuri to Denver, bridging cultural divides and creating lasting memories for everyone in attendance.
Post-Parade: Wrapping Up
After the parade, the Yatai was carefully returned to its storage space at GeoTech by DSCI Executive Director Sacha Heppell and Gil Asakawa, Takayama Committee Chair and committee members, Tak Kida and Kyle Kwiatkowski. Placed under protective plastic, the float awaits its next opportunity to shine.
This year’s Parade of Lights reaffirmed the enduring bond between Denver and Takayama. Next year, the cities will celebrate the 65th anniversary of their sister city relationship with a Taste of Japan Festival and a weeklong celebration of Japanese culture, with special attention to Takayama’s traditions.
