The Christmas season kicked off with the annual parade and tree lighting at city hall. Several student groups joined businesses and organizations from around the community for the parade, which wrapped around the blocks around the event, starting and ending at the upper junior high. Cars lined the streets and extended down Highway 75 nearly to the lights, with those who could not find space to park on the route walking in. Sophomore Garrett Mosley, who marched with the band, said he felt like this parade was bigger and better than those for the past few years. 

     “The parade was bigger than ever this year, and it was a lot more fun being towards the front of the parade, and the tree lighting was bigger than ever, or at least than any of the years I’ve been to.” 

     The cheerleaders also took part in the parade, and senior Avery Waters enjoyed being part of the event. The best part? “Getting to walk in the parade, and then just enjoying the Christmas festivities with my friends and family,” Waters said. 

     Even before the parade was over, lines were forming at all of the other events. Chamber of Commerce members handed out hot chocolate and chili dogs as well as treat bags. There were plenty of amusement park rides for the kids to enjoy, with parents lining up to watch and take pictures as their children enjoyed the fun. 

     For anyone who got too chilly in the cool evening air, there were activities inside as well, with booths offering balloon animals and face painting. A firepit near Community National Bank offered another hand-warming spot between visits to see the Grinch and Mr. and Mrs. Claus by the giant tree. Anne’s Dance Studio entertained the crowd until it was time to count down for the lighting of the tree. 

     For freshman Haley Brown, the event was a great way to start the Christmas season. 

     “It was a lot of fun to be there and experience it with the cheerleaders,” Brown said. “I felt welcomed to be there with them and see the whole town come out for the parade.”