Community Parades Welcome Santa

By Marija Ilic

Freezing temperatures on Friday evening prevented school bands from attending annual Philippi Christmas parade, and there were fewer residents lining up the streets, but that did not take away from the festivities, as the parade saw increase in delightfully decorated floats from variety of groups and organizations, and brought holiday lights down the Main Street!

Craft shows, held both at the City Gym and 17 North Event Center, saw influx of people as they tried to stay warm, and overall, the turnout and sales were reported as good, considering the cold weather that blanketed the area.

Belington parade saw increase in temperature and more attendance, and has featured several events alongside, including meet and greet with Santa at the Golden Rule building.

Main feature of both parades was welcoming the arrival of Santa Claus to the delight of many children who were excited to meet a jolly old man and tell him about their Christmas wishes.

For information about upcoming Christmas festivities, please check out the calendar section in this week’s newspaper.