BRADENTON — On Friday, December 19, the Holly Jolly Trolley Christmas Parade will roll through Manatee County once again, bringing music, laughter, and holiday cheer to older adults across the community.
Organized by Home Helpers Home Care of Bradenton and Still Alive Inside, this year’s event will feature two decorated trolleys, a dancing Santa, and a lively crew of holiday helpers. Together throughout the day, they will make short, cheerful visits at nine organizations that serve seniors, including assisted living communities, skilled nursing facilities, hospitals, and adult day care.
Residents, family members, and staff at each stop can look forward to festive music, dancing, photo opportunities, and plenty of smiles. At some locations, volunteers will step off the trolleys for quick 20-to-30-minute celebrations before heading to the next location, keeping the energy high from morning through late afternoon.
“We do this because the holidays can be a lonely time for many seniors,” said Jonathan Marsh, Owner of Home Helpers Home Care of Bradenton. “For one day, we get to surround them with music, color, and connection. The amazing part is that everyone on the trolleys leaves feeling just as filled up as the people we visit. It is pure joy in both directions.”
Although the visits themselves are private events, the trolleys will be on public roads all day, and community members are encouraged to keep an eye out. If you see the Holly Jolly Trolleys, you are invited to wave, take pictures, and share them on social media using the hashtag #HJTrolley.
Based on the current schedule, the trolleys are expected to be in the following general areas on Friday, December 19, 2025:
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