HOULTON, Maine — The twinkle of Christmas bulbs illuminated the night sky Saturday evening during the Greater Houlton Chamber of Commerce’s annual Holiday Light Parade.
More than 1,000 people lined the streets to watch the parade, either from the comfort of their vehicles or by braving the cold to stand downtown. The parade, continued its tradition of beginning at the Houlton Shopping Plaza on the North Road before traveling down North Street to Market Square, where Santa Claus unveiled the new lights and topper adorning the “Town Tree.” Mr. Claus then walked to the Chamber, where he visited with the children who were eager to share their wish lists with him and Mrs. Claus.
This year’s theme was “Christmas Around the World,” with parade entries showcasing how Christmas may be celebrated around the globe.
The light parade marks the official start to the holiday shopping season and the arrival of Santa to the Shiretown, explained Jane Torres, executive director for the chamber.
“I am, as always, amazed at the effort people put into the decorations on their floats and vehicles and how enthusiastic the walkers are despite the distance of the parade route and the cold temperature outside,” Torres said. “North Country Cruisers had five entries this year, so if there was an award for enthusiasm this group certainly would come out on top.
“Santa and Mrs. Claus rode in style on the Harbison Plumbing and Heating float and seeing the looks on the children’s faces when Santa came to light the tree was priceless,” Torres added. “Santa chose to walk to the Chamber with Mrs. Claus and myself and, I must say, that for the five minutes it took to get there I felt like a rock star. Walking with Santa is pretty heady stuff.”
Prizes were awarded in the following categories: Business float, Pioneer Broadband; Vehicle, Crestview Manor; and Walkers, Scott White and family.
