2011 Founders Day

Founders Day is the annual celebration of Johns Creek's official incorporation on Dec. 1, 2006. The city observes the anniversary on the first Saturday in December, culminating a weeklong series of events. This is the City's 5th anniversary!

2011 Winning Floats

The prize-winning floats in the 5th Annual Founders Day Parade were:

1st Place: Medlock Bridge Homeowners Association's "Wizard of Oz"
2nd Place: Wilson Creek Girl Scouts — Juniors
3rd Place: Johns Creek Arts Center's "A World of Art"

Founders Day Events

drum Founders Day Parade: This is the highlight of the week. Since its inception (Dec. 2007), the parade has grown to more than 80 units and thousands of participants, including a NASCAR racer, Shriner clowns, local high school clubs and bands, and colorful floats from area businesses, organizations and neighborhoods.

The parade route travels west on State Bridge at West Morton and ends at Kimball Bridge Road at Ocee Elementary School.

Groups wishing to participate should apply by Nov. 11 at City Hall or online [PDF]. Remember, there's only one Santa, and floats can't be more than 15 feet high. Questions? Call Elizabeth Warren (678-512-3296) or Grant Hickey (678-512-3351). Details.

Santa's hat Santa Jam: Santa Claus arrives at the end of the parade, riding atop a vintage fire engine. He's then whisked away to a party in his honor at Johns Creek High School, where he hears children's wishes and poses for photos. Details.

light City Hall Tree Lighting: The party begins the preceding Monday at City Hall with the lighting of a giant dreidel and 30-foot Christmas tree. Local elementary school choruses accentuate the festive air with a selection of seasonal favorites before the Mayor throws the switch! Details.

"Toys for Tots" early drop-off also available at the Tree Lighting.

Cards for Our Military Personnel: Sign the giant holiday cards designed by JC 5th graders for our military personnel. The cards will be available for signing at the tree lighting ceremony and in the 4th floor lobby of City Hall through Dec. 14th. Details.

snowman Kids' Holiday Craft Workshop: The Johns Creek Arts Center opens its doors for children to get in touch with their artistic side by making their own handmade holiday decorations. Details.

Holiday Book Readings: The Mayor, City Council, Police and Fire Chiefs visit area elementary schools to share their favorite holiday storybooks. Details.

"Toys for Tots": Stop by City Hall, Park Place at Newtown School or one of the fire stations – this week through the 14th – to donate a toy. Details.

Holiday Workshop: Finally, Emory Johns Creek Hospital, City Hall's next-door neighbor, holds a festival of its own Friday night before the parade. Details.

The weeklong Founders Day celebration unites the young city, providing a point of pride in remembering the efforts of all those who worked so hard to make incorporation a reality and celebrating Johns Creek's continuing progress.

It's a fun-filled, family-oriented way to kick off the holiday season. We invite you to join the party!