Corgi’s take over St. Elmo for Chattanooga’s Corgi Parade

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – The streets of St. Elmo were packed with paws and people as community members and their corgis showed off their costumes and charm during Chattanooga’s annual Corgi Parade.

The beloved event once again brought smiles to the area, as dog owners and spectators gathered to celebrate one of the community’s most popular traditions.

Participants say the parade is a chance to enjoy the unique personalities of the breed while connecting with others.

“It’s always fun to see all the different corgis. There are so many of them, and I love their short little legs and big personalities,” said Savannah Gentry, who attended with her corgi, Milo.

Founder and Director Bob Wright said the parade has grown significantly since it first began.

“The Corgi Parade started back in 1996 right on this same street. It was part of another festival called September in St. Elmo. I had four corgis and knew a lot of people who had them, so the first year we had about 10 to 15 dogs. Over the years, it continued to grow. When the Hello St. Elmo Festival started, they asked me to bring the parade back,” Wright explained.

For many families, the event has become a long-standing tradition.

“We have had corgis in our family for over 20 years. This is our third one, Rosie. When the parade stopped for a few years, we were really sad. When it came back, we could not wait to be part of it again,” said participant Joe Schefano.

Past winners also returned to celebrate the occasion.

Donna Ward, whose corgi Leo was crowned king in 2023, recalled the moment her pup earned the title.

“He had on a little Hawaiian shirt, and the judge said he looked like a king. They awarded him the title, and he has been our king ever since,” Ward said.

This year, two new pups took the spotlight, earning the titles of king and queen of the parade.

“I love him, and he deserves all the love,” said Aiden McGill, whose corgi Winston was crowned king.

“She came from Indiana. She is just a cute, fluffy little girl with a short tail,” said Tracie Canfield about Stella, this year’s crowned queen.

Organizers say the parade continues to grow each year, bringing the community together through a shared love of corgis, creativity, and fun.

They say the event is more than just a parade. It is a celebration of community, connection, and the joy that pets bring into people’s lives.