BY DEBBIE PAGE
Hundreds of people lined Eastway Drive in Troutman on a damp Saturday morning to usher in the holiday season at the town’s 6th Annual Christmas Parade.
The hour-long parade featured 100 entries, 200 vehicles, and an estimated 600 people participants. Spectators cheered a wide variety of parade participants, including the South Iredell and Statesville high school bands, floats, Acrofitness kids’ tumbling feats, Scouts, beauty queens, antique and show cars, bedecked tractors, Grinches, and elected officials.
The star of the show, Santa Claus, arrived on a Troutman Fire and Rescue engine with two lively elves, waving to delighted children at the parade’s conclusion. Marine Corps League volunteers helped Santa collect Toys for Tots from attendees.
Prior to the parade, many enjoyed a pancake, eggs, bacon and sausage breakfast put on by the Troutman Rotary Club at Troutman Elementary School. Music was provided by South Iredell High musicians and singers, and Santa made an early appearance to hear children’s Christmas wishes.
JINGLE RUN SET FOR SUNDAY
The weekend’s holiday kickoff continues Sunday with the Jingle Bell 5K at 3 p.m. at Town Hall. Runners are asked to wear their merriest holiday apparel as they run or walk in this festive event.
The run begins at Troutman Town Hall (400 N. Eastway Drive) and winds through Troutman. The race is troller friendly, but please use caution.
This is an officially timed race by McLelland Racing Team.
Please consider donating a new toy or personal care item for My Sister’s house to support their holiday season. Bring this item on race day to be collected on-site.
The My Sister’s House Christmas wishlist includes pajamas (all sizes for women and children), women’s slippers, robes, scarves, mittens, toboggans, blankets, throws, new unwrapped toys for all ages, paper products (toilet paper, paper towels, facial tissues), cleaning supplies, OTC cold & flu medication, shampoo & conditioner sets, bottled water, juice boxes, soda, dark-colored towels, washcloths, and dish towels.
Online registration has ended, but participants may still register prior to the race starting at 2 p.m.
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