Mel Martin, owner and founder of the Martin Auto Museum near the border of Phoenix and Glendale, will serve as grand marshal for the 12th annual Hometown Christmas Parade at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13 in Glendale.

“What an incredible honor,” stated Mel Martin in a press release. “I am truly delighted to lead a parade that celebrates the true meaning of Christmas. At the Martin Auto Museum, my passion has always been to share the history and heritage of automobiles with future generations. I cannot wait to see the joy on the faces of children as they take in the classic cars, the festive floats, and, of course, Santa Claus.”

Mayor Jerry Weiers and grand marshal Martin invite the community to join them for the family-friendly celebration in historic downtown Glendale. The parade will roll tfrom 52nd Avenue to 58th Avenue.

The Hometown Christmas Parade celebrates the true reason for the season—the birth of Jesus Christ. It has become a tradition thanks to a dedicated volunteer committee made up of nonprofits, faith-based organizations, businesses, and residents.

Though held in Glendale, the parade draws participants and sponsors from across the Valley.

“I am thankful to Mel (Martin) for agreeing to be our parade marshal. He is a pillar in our community, and I know he will relish this opportunity. Mel is the owner and founder of the Martin Auto Museum," Mayor Weiers stated in the release. "Over the years, Mel’s love of cars led to a substantial collection and after the years of joy they brought him, he decided to give back to the Valley and open the Martin Auto Museum.”

Last year, parade organizers donated more than $60,000 and thousands of pounds of food to Glendale’s Hope for Hunger Food Bank. Spectators are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to the parade and place them in food donation bins, or make an online donation at www.hcparade.org/food-drive.