It was a cold and blustery Saturday, but America’s Christmas Hometown was as festive as ever. The annual Santa Claus Christmas Parade had visitors arriving more than an hour early, wrapped in blankets and layers of clothing, to secure a good vantage point for this year’s procession.
The roadway in front of Santa Claus Town Hall proved a popular gathering place, with many stopping to get a picture with the Santa statue out front. Others huddled together along the curb and sidewalk to keep warm for the coming of sirens and holiday music. The parade began right on time and the wait was quite short as marchers, floats and other entries made their way from Holiday World.
Police cars, fire trucks and other vehicles heralded the approach with sirens and horns, followed by cheers from kids as the candy began to fly. Entries representing area organizations followed quickly, with a number of festive decorations and tunes to keep the atmosphere joyful. Santa Claus himself brought up the rear, joined by a little helper and Mrs. Claus herself.
Photos by Don Steen
