LODI, Calif. — More than a day and a half before floats loaded with lights parade through parts of downtown Lodi, Tricia Robertson spent Wednesday morning setting up chairs.
"We always come out at least a day early so we can get a good spot," said Robertson.
She secured not just any good spot, but the same spot where she and her family have watched the Lodi Parade of Lights for nearly ten years.
"It’s just a great tradition that Lodi has for us," said Robertson. "My family looks forward to it every year."
The Robertsons know where they want to sit and so do dozens of other families who come out in some cases, days in advance to reserve their seats.
“Sometimes there’s three days before, people will line the streets in the more popular areas," said Robertson.
Robertson uses a rope to hold down her family’s chairs, but for Greg Turner on the other side of School Street, seat reserving is serious business. He used a wire, padlock and the help of a friend to make sure his spot stayed reserved.
"We've got to get the kids out here, front row seating," said Turner. "It’s a big parade, really nice. It's worth it."
"No parking" signs are posted all around the brick walk in anticipation of the parade, but they don’t necessarily apply to chairs.
However, in a statement, the city of Lodi asked that people not set up their chairs until 24 hours before the parade.
"We kindly ask that chairs and seating arrangements are not set up more than 24 hours prior to the event. This will help maintain a fair and equal opportunity for everyone to find their perfect spot along the parade route. We also kindly request that chairs, when placed, do not obstruct roadways, driveways, or walkways. This will ensure the safety and convenience of all pedestrians and vehicles before and during the parade," the statement said. "The route through downtown Lodi will offer fantastic viewing opportunities for all. With plenty of space to sit and soak in the holiday atmosphere, you can comfortably enjoy the spectacular display of lights and creativity that the parade has to offer."
While chairs usually line the sidewalk in front of Hayley Jackson's downtown store every year, she says the sudden onslaught of seats isn’t a bad thing.
“During the parade, there’s a lot of foot traffic coming in and out," said Jackson, who owns New & Again Consignment Furniture Gallery. "It makes it exciting, a little buzz around town.”
Of course, Hayley already has her seats reserved as well.
"Thankfully, we have this spot here so we can just put our chairs out front and have a nice, warm place to retreat to if needed," said Jackson. "(Tuesday), on Church Street, there were already chairs. I waited until (Wednesday) morning, so one day early.”
The parade kicks off Thursday night at 6:17 p.m. The route starts and ends in the area of Lockeford and Sacramento Streets.
Watch more from ABC10: 'Bella Vita' boat joins others in Stockton lighted decorated boat parade
