Marie Osmond Named Grand Marshal of Hollywood Christmas Parade

Singer-actress Marie Osmond was named Monday the grand marshal of the 80th anniversary Hollywood Christmas Parade, which will make its way down through the streets of Hollywood Nov. 27.

"I always get in the holiday spirit as soon as the Halloween decor is put away, so I will be in full Christmas-celebration mode by Nov. 27," Osmond said.

Dean Cain will host the music portion of the televised parade special, which will air Dec. 12 on the Hallmark Channel.

The 6 p.m. parade begins at the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Orange Drive, then moves east to Vine Street, then south to Sunset Boulevard and back west to Orange.

CHiPs star Erik Estrada and World's Funniest Moments host Laura McKenzie will return as emcees, announcing the names of celebrities, marching bands, equestrian units, floats and the giant balloons, as they pass by.

Proceeds from the telecast will benefit Toys for Tots.

The Hollywood Christmas Parade is a tradition that began in 1928, although it was suspended for three years during World War II. At its peak, it featured A- list celebrities like Bing Crosby, Bob Hope, Jimmy Stewart, Sammy Davis Jr., George Burns and Gracie Allen.

The event was what inspired Gene Autry to compose the classic song "Here Comes Santa Claus."

The parade's popularity waned over the years, and it was almost canceled in 2007, when the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce could not secure enough broadcast advertising to help offset the cost of the production.

The Los Angeles City Council stepped in and contributed $175,000 to keep the parade going. The city continues to sponsor the event.

The parade is now run by Hollywood's Santa Parade LLC.