Holiday Parade of Lights kicks off season Friday

Santa Claus will listen to children after the parade, as shown in this photo from last year's event.

The Christmas season will open with the first official appearance of Santa Claus during the Holiday Light Parade on Friday, Dec. 4, beginning at 8 p.m.

The theme this year is "Christmas Through the Eyes of a Child."

The parade will head down East Second Street, turn up American Legion Boulevard and conclude at Triangle Park across from Herb Hawley's service station on North 6th East Street with the lighting of the community Christmas tree.

Under the tree will be large boxes, decorated as presents, in which everyone is encouraged to place canned goods and non-perishable items that will be distributed to local food banks that help feed the hungry in the community.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand to pass out candy. There also will be hot cocoa and other treats available.

All area merchants, and in particular area churches, are being encouraged to take part in the parade. There will be cash awards for winning entries.

To enter the parade and secure a location, register at the Chamber office during the day or call Lori Posey at 587-4334. The Chamber put out a call this week seeking additional entries to the parade.

Registrations can also be obtained at the Chamber website at http://www.mountainhomechamber.com.

The deadline to register is today, Dec. 2.