Teacher, Paraeducator Of The Year To Lead Float At Upcoming Parade Spectacular In Stamford

STAMFORD, CT — The 32nd annual Stamford Downtown Parade Spectacular will bring giant balloons, marching bands and community performers to the city on Sunday, Nov. 23, with Stamford Public Schools once again taking a prominent role in the festivities.

This year’s SPS float, titled "Empowering Without Powers," highlights two district honorees: George Rigakos, the 2025 SPS Teacher of the Year, and Ronnie Griggs, the 2025 Paraeducator of the Year.

Rigakos, a special education teacher at Westover Magnet School, is in his 13th year with the district and is a SPS graduate himself.

"He strives to make students know the importance of working hard to achieve their dreams by setting goals, conquering obstacles, and breaking barriers. He believes everyone has great potential if they just believe," a recent news release from Stamford Downtown said.

Griggs — widely known as "Mr. Ron" — has lived in Stamford for more than 30 years and has served as a special education paraeducator both at Westhill High School and, more recently, at Stillmeadow Elementary School.

Griggs "works collaboratively with classroom teachers and is committed to the growth of all students," Stamford Downtown noted.

The parade will once again feature dozens of large character balloons, with new additions including Ariel the Zoonicorn, Bumble the Abominable Snowman and Neko the Good Fortune Cat. Returning favorites include Clifford the Big Red Dog, Curious George, Oscar the Grouch, Rudolph, Shrek and Super Grover.

Performances will feature the NYPD Emerald Society Pipe & Drum Band, Fairfield County Pipes & Drums and multiple high school marching bands, including groups from Westhill, Brentwood, Uniondale, Waterbury’s JFK High School and Wyandanch.

New participants include the Pride of Port Chester High School Marching Band, Ballet Folklórico de las Américas and the Ballet School of Stamford.

Additional dance ensembles, community groups and floats will join the procession, along with Santa. Colin Cosell, public address announcer for the New York Mets and New York Riptide, returns as master of ceremonies for a fourth year.

The parade will begin at noon at Summer and Hoyt streets and conclude at Atlantic and Federal streets, near the Stamford Transportation Center.

The Point72 Giant Balloon Inflation Party, a behind-the-scenes event featuring music, parade talent and an appearance by Santa, will take place the day before — Saturday, Nov. 22 — from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Hoyt and Summer streets.

The parade is presented by the Stamford Downtown Special Services District and the City of Stamford, with support from corporate sponsors and community organizations.

For more information, visit Stamford Downtown Parade Spectacular