One of the key players in Lahaina’s Keiki Halloween Parade wants to start a new tradition this Saturday, Christmas Eve.

Church on the Go Inc. President Joseph Pluta last week announced that the inaugural Christmas Parade for Lahaina Town is set for 10 a.m. on Dec. 24 on Front Street.

Senior Pastor Laki Kaahumanu and Pluta recently received the green light to stage the parade and close Front Street to motorists from Baker to Prison streets from 9:30 a.m. to probably not later than noon.

The parade will begin at 10 a.m. at Papalaua Street and proceed south down Front Street to conclude at Banyan Tree Park.

In its first year, the parade will honor Lahainaluna High School state champions from the football, basketball and wrestling teams.

Organizers hope LHS athletes, band members and cheerleaders will also participate.

The parade will also feature Maui Fire Department vehicles, Mayor Alan Arakawa and other dignitaries, Lahaina’s own Elvis (Darren Lee of “Burn’n Love”), decorated motorcycles and classic cars, and Christmas characters.

Walking in the parade or entering a vehicle or float is limited to those authorized by the Church on the Go Inc. administration.

A flyer on the event is posted at www.churchonthego.us, and more information is available by calling the church office at 661-7990 or e-mailing jdp@maui.net.

Pluta and the church want the Christmas Parade to become another popular event here. As a member of the Rotary Club of Lahaina, Pluta has been a leader in the Keiki Halloween Parade that children and their parents have enjoyed for nearly 40 years.

This year’s Christmas Parade is being assembled fast. Contact the church if you want to get involved.