Last weekend, Briggs Street came alive with vibrant colors and holiday cheer as the annual Parade of Lights transformed the town into a dazzling display that warmed the hearts of residents and visitors alike. This beloved community event once again proved to be a shining example of the power of unity and festive spirit.
The Parade of Lights, held on December 1st, drew crowds from all corners of Erie, as families, friends, and neighbors gathered along the parade route to witness a magical display of illuminated floats, marching bands, and cheerful participants spreading joy to all. The event not only marked the beginning of the holiday season but also served as a testament to the strong sense of community that many feel defines Erie.
One of the highlights of the parade was the impressive array of creatively decorated floats, each adorned with thousands of twinkling lights that illuminated the street. Local businesses, schools, and community organizations created eye-catching displays that showcased their commitment to making Erie a vibrant and welcoming place to live. Junior at Erie High School, and annual parade attendee, Ellys Nelson, says; “My favorite part of this is that it is so full of pride, everyone has a ‘Yeah, Erie!’ mentality, and it’s really welcoming.”
The parade featured a diverse range of participants, from spirited marching bands to Boy Scout troops, adding an extra layer of entertainment for the audience. For many both middle school and high school band students, the parade of lights is the highlight of the year. Senior band member Abby Whiteley has been enjoying marching in the parade since she was in middle school. “My favorite part of the parade of lights is walking right through Briggs Street and playing with the middle schoolers because we don’t really get to collaborate with them much, but when they come we can teach them how to march.”
Moreover, the Parade of Lights also provided an opportunity for local businesses to showcase their community spirit. Many establishments along the parade route extended their storefronts with festive decorations, enhancing the overall experience and contributing to a boost to the local economy.
Briggs Street played host to numerous businesses that generously volunteered their services, adding an extra layer of warmth and generosity to the festivities. Calvary Church set up a free hot chocolate station along Briggs Street, providing a welcome respite from the winter chill. Residents and visitors alike flocked to the station, savoring the warmth of a comforting cup of hot chocolate, generously provided by the church.
In addition to the hot chocolate station, Santa’s Workshop was assembled in the middle of Briggs Street, a magical space where children could go and meet Santa and Mrs. Claus in person. The joy on the faces of the little ones mirrored the festive atmosphere that permeated the entire event.
The success of Erie’s Parade of Lights serves as a shining example of the magic that can happen when a community comes together to celebrate the holiday season and, more importantly, each other.
