2025 Community Heritage Honoree Announced

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COOKEVILLE, Tenn. -- The Cookeville Christmas Parade Committee has announced the McClellan Family and John’s Place as the 2025 Community Heritage Honoree for the Cookeville Christmas Parade, scheduled for Friday, Dec. 19, 2025.

The Community Heritage Honoree distinction is reserved for individuals, families, or institutions whose legacy has helped shape the heart, history, and character of the Cookeville community. This year’s honoree reflects a story deeply rooted in faith, hospitality, and a steadfast

commitment to serving others.

Open since 1949, John’s Place has long been a Cookeville landmark, known for its welcoming atmosphere and deep ties to the community.

Whether gathering after Tennessee Tech ballgames, stopping in before church services, or visiting during early mornings and late evenings, it has remained a place where conversations come easily, and everyone is welcomed and treated like family.

For many patrons, the experience was made even more memorable by John’s beloved hot dog, aptly named the “John Dog.” It was a familiar favorite that became part of the fabric of daily life at John’s Place. Through changing seasons and growing generations, the McClellan Family

has faithfully stewarded a place that consistently reflects kindness, integrity, and meaningful community connection.

The building itself holds historical significance and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its importance to Cookeville’s cultural and architectural heritage. Over the years, John’s Place has remained a symbol of small-town hospitality and shared memories for

generations of residents.

“John’s Place has always been about more than a building or a meal; it has been a place where, as John Lee said it best, ‘everyone is welcome,’” said Marciano (Tip) McClellan, proprietor and family representative. “I am honored to carry forward the legacy my father, John Lee,

built, and we are grateful for the generations of memories made within these walls. We are so thankful that Cookeville residents continue to visit and support our establishment.”

The Cookeville Christmas Parade is one of the city’s most cherished traditions, bringing families and neighbors together to celebrate the season and remember the true reason for Christmas. Honoring the McClellan Family & John’s Place as the 2025 Community Heritage Honoree allows

the community to pause and give thanks for a legacy that helped shape Cookeville’s strong sense of belonging.

The public is invited to join in celebrating this year’s honoree as the parade makes its way through downtown Cookeville on Friday, Dec. 19, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.

COOKEVILLE, Tenn. -- The Cookeville Christmas Parade Committee is pleased to announce that Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) Trooper Adam Cothron has been chosen to serve as Grand Marshal of the 2025 Cookeville Christmas Parade, set for Friday, Dec. 19, at 7 p.m.

Trooper Cothron will lead the parade down Broad Street as the community comes together to celebrate the hope, peace, and healing that Christmas offers.

Before joining the THP in 2015, Cothron served as a Deputy Sheriff with the Trousdale County Sheriff’s Office. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated unwavering courage, integrity, and a deep commitment to safeguarding the people of Tennessee. His leadership and steady presence have made a lasting and meaningful impact across the Upper Cumberland region.

On July 19, 2024, Trooper Cothron was critically injured in a shooting during a traffic stop on Interstate 40 near Cookeville’s Willow Avenue exit. While the incident deeply affected the community, it also sparked an extraordinary outpouring of love, unity, and prayer from families, churches, and neighbors throughout Tennessee.

In the months following the attack, countless individuals across the region offered support and encouragement to Trooper Cothron and his family. His recovery has become a powerful testament to resilience and to the strength of a community that stands together in challenging times. 

“Trooper Adam Cothron’s journey has shown us that hope can rise even in the hardest moments,” said Tennessee Highway Patrol Captain Billy Pierce. “Adam’s courage, perseverance, and the overwhelming support from this community reflect the true spirit of Christmas. It is an honor to have him lead this year’s Cookeville Christmas Parade.”

Adding even more excitement to the evening, the real Santa Claus will make a special trip from the North Pole to join the celebration. Santa will close the parade in his traditional place of honor, spreading joy, wonder, and Christmas cheer to children and families lined along the route. His appearance is sure to be one of the most anticipated moments of the night.

The 2025 Cookeville Christmas Parade seeks to center the true meaning of the season: the birth of Jesus Christ, the hope He brings, and the light that shines even in difficult times. Families, churches, local organizations, and visitors will gather to celebrate faith, joy, and the gift of community.

Due to strong interest and safety priorities, the Cookeville Christmas Parade Committee will select entries that best fit the family-friendly theme. Everyone is invited to join us along the route as spectators.

The parade will follow the traditional downtown route beginning at 6th Street/North Washington Avenue and concluding at Depot Street. Groups wishing to participate may obtain an application at https://rememberthereasoncookeville.com/parade-application-1. The Cookeville Christmas Parade entry deadline is Dec. 12, at 12 p.m.