Fair weather helped generate a large crowd on the streets of downtown Perry Friday night, all drawn to the annual Perry Chamber of Commerce Lighted Christmas Parade.
The parade followed the usual route, traveling north on Third Street from Otley Avenue before turning west on Pattee Street and returning to Otley by rolling south along Second Street.
Many civic groups and businesses were represented in the parade, with a large number of walkers moving along with the entries. Youngsters hoping for treats were not disappointed, as a steady rain of candy flew along both sides of the route.
The Perry Volunteer Fire Department had many of their vehicles illuminated in the parade. Firefighters also helped the city enter the spirit of the season this week by stringing lights on the trees at Raccoon Valley Bank and by placing colored covers over the exterior lights on the Perry City Hall.
A highlight for many was surely the large and always well-done Industrial Technology float from the Perry High School students. A large gathering of those students followed the float and marching behind a banner that read, “In Loving Memory of Steva,” in reference to former Industrial Tech teacher Darin Steva, 42, who passed away Sunday.
Funeral services for the popular teacher will be held at the Perry Performing Arts Center at 1 p.m. Saturday.
When the parade ended, many ventured to the TownCraft Building, where Santa Claus made sure children with wish lists would have a jolly ear to whisper their requests into. Hot chocolate awaited those who worked up a thirst standing in wait to see Kris Kringle. Holiday makers waiting outside were treated to the sweet sound of carols, courtesy of the Perry High School Select Choir.
The Carnegie Library Museum welcomed visitors to their annual Festival of Trees. The displays, created by local businesses and civic organizations, will be available for viewing from 12-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3 and again Dec. 10 and 17 and from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4 and also Dec. 11 and 18.
A Black Friday Fundraiser was held before and after the parade at the Old Harbach Building, 1210 Willis Ave., for the Let’s Connect trail campaign. Drinks and treats were served at the event, which was sponsored by the Perry Golf and Country Club and La Paris Est. 1869.
Several youngsters, when asked by ThePerryNews.com, reported that they were excited for Christmas, but the snow-free sidewalks and visible grass lessened the mood.
“I don’t really get excited until it snows, especially if we get to miss school,” one six-year old said, who identified herself as a “good girl and first grader.”
Other youngsters echoed her sentiments, with the wish for snow — if not for cold temperatures — a common not in the chorus. An unscientific observation of parents and adults near those questioned found a decidedly different outlook, although all agreed there is no time quite like the Christmas season.
