Senior Nicole Schwab practices her singing and dancing as nerves and excitement fill her thoughts.

She is anticipating the upcoming performance with her chorus members in the Dunkin’ Donuts Thanksgiving Day Parade.

As people from all over tune in to watch Philadelphia’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, students and staff from Hammonton High School will see members of the choral department singing and dancing on the streets.

The Thanksgiving Day Parade in Philadelphia is one of the city’s largest and most talked about traditions; it is the oldest parade in the country. The parade is 1.4 miles and is sponsored by 6ABC and Dunkin’ Donuts. People travel from all over the Northeast to celebrate the holiday spirit and watch the floats, music, and dancing.

Among the giant balloons, floats, dance groups, and marching is the Hammonton High School chorus, which has been participating for the past nine year.

They started participating in the parade when Ms. Carrafiello, the choral director, received a letter in the mail informing her about the opportunity.

“They send out forms to all the local schools,” she said. “I filled one out and now we’re in it!”

She is not always able to see the performance when at the parade but watches it when she gets home after the long day.

“I DVR their performance because I don’t get a chance to watch their whole event when I’m there. I love the kids being involved and seeing their faces as they perform. It’s my favorite part,” she said.

The Chorus has been working hard to prepare.

“I receive the music, we learn the choreography in the auditorium, and just practice and practice,” Carrafiello said.

Sixty members of the chorus will be participating.

“We’ve been practicing our singing and dancing, and the day before the parade we have a big dress rehearsal,” Schwab said.

Those who are unable to attend encouraged their fellow classmates.

“Have fun and keep smiling, no one watching will know if you mess up a step so just smile through it and dance your heart out,” said Erin DiDonato.

Carrafiello encouraged her students by saying, “Just have a blast guys. It’s a once in a lifetime experience so have the time of your lives. Have fun!”

If you would like to support our school, tune into channel 6ABC at 8:30 A.M. to 12 P.M. For those who can attend, the parade starts at 20th and Market Streets and continue down the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The chorus can be seen near the art museum.