Vegas icon Wayne Newton to lead carnival parade

Organizers of the Whitefish Winter Carnival have hit the jackpot with this year’s theme, “Viva Las Vegas.”

The one and only Wayne Newton has agreed to be grand marshal of the Grand Parade. That’s right — Mr. Las Vegas himself will join King Ullr and the royal court on the carnival float for a ride down Central Avenue.

Newton — who has ties to the Flathead Valley — told carnival organizer Paul Johannsen he’d be honored to participate.

“He said he’d be thrilled to do it,” Johannsen said.

The 71-year-old entertainer has performed more than 25,000 shows in Las Vegas. He is well known for his hits “Danke Schoen” and “Daddy, Don’t You Walk So Fast.”

Johannsen assured the Pilot this was no hoax — unlike the rumors last year that actor Johnny Depp would be grand marshal.

“This is for real,” he said. “This is not like Johnny Depp. This is for real.”

Johannsen said they tossed around the idea of inviting Newton when they first began planning the carnival.

“We’ve been working on this for several months,” Johannsen said.

“We were able to get in touch through a friend of his wife.”

While details are still being worked out, Newton may also attend the Gala Party at the Whitefish Lake Golf Club and the Penguin Plunge at City Beach.

“We’ve invited him to all the events,” Johannsen said.

The Winter Carnival Grand Parade is set for Feb. 8 at 3 p.m.

Visit online at www.whitefishwintercarnival.com for a full calendar of events.