UPDATED at 3:07 p.m. with video
In contrast to two other downtown parades in the last handful of weeks, onlookers for the 2016 Holiday Parade arrived on the parade route at the last possible moment. Minutes before, many were huddled in their cars — music playing, hot chocolate guzzling, and excitement building.
It was a cold and blustery early winter morning on Saturday for the annual event. A few minutes before the parade’s scheduled kickoff at 10:00 a.m., the cars emptied, the streets filled with spectators and, as if on cue, the clouds parted somewhat and the sun appeared. For a few moments, that is, before hiding again for the remainder of the morning.
Hundreds joined in the several floats and units, including both the Mansfield Senior and Madison Local High School marching bands. A life-sized nutcracker, several costumed characters, candy cane dancers, and others joined in the fun.
We were one of those onlookers and, with numb hands, took several photos. Ours were from the opposite side of the street as Richland Source’s – but when Santa arrived in fire engine style down the middle of the street, that didn’t matter. The holidays have arrived in north central Ohio!
CLICK HERE TO VIEW OUR PHOTOS.
Also, here’s video from the parade:
