COEUR d’ALENE — Kaitlyn Widmyer has a lifetime’s worth of fond memories tied to the annual Lighting Ceremony Parade.

“Growing up, the Lighting Ceremony Parade was a favorite tradition for my family,” Widmyer said. “I have fond memories of bundling up in cozy layers, sipping hot cocoa and feeling the excitement as the downtown lights came alive. As a teenager, working in retail at The Resort, I remember scrambling to pass out candles in time for the 'Silent Night' singalong.”

This year, Widmyer has an integral role to play in one of Coeur d’Alene’s most beloved events as the parade’s grand marshal.

Widmyer founded Coeur d’Alene Fashion Week in 2021, which has since supported over 15 local designers and 200 area models. Widmyer is also a stylist at Marmalade, a local luxury clothing boutique.

Widmyer was also crowned Miss Idaho USA for 2024. For all her accomplishments, the Coeur d’Alene native has never forgotten her roots.

“It’s truly special to lead the parade in a city I love so much,” Widmyer told The Press.

For Widmyer, this year’s superhero theme goes beyond celebrating the superheroes of fiction and fantasy.

“As grand marshal, I’ll help lead the celebration while honoring and being inspired by not only the fictional superheroes we all know and love, but also the real-life hometown heroes in our community — our police officers, firefighters, first responders and so many others who serve and protect us every day,” Widmyer said. “It’s an opportunity to celebrate both imagination and the courage of those who make our city a safe and wonderful place to live.”

Tonight’s parade begins at 5 in downtown Coeur d’Alene, with the lighting ceremony and fireworks at The Coeur d'Alene Resort afterward.

“From Christmas sweaters to light-up headbands, I want to see the whole city of Coeur d’Alene as festive as possible,” Widmyer said. “It’s time to spread the joy and cheer of the season, and I can’t wait to see everyone coming together to celebrate the winter holidays.”