Kris Kringle rode into the Royal City atop a fire truck in the 2013 Santa Claus Parade.
Families braved sub-zero temperatures to greet Santa in the Dec. 7 parade on Columbia Street. In recent years, the parade began at 4 p.m., but the city opted for an earlier start to give people more time to participate in other festive events taking place in the downtown.
"I think it was very successful," said acting mayor Jonathan Cote. "It was a bit chilly, but the sun was shining."
Marching bands, fire trucks and police cars, floats, dancers and mascots were among the entries in Saturday’s parade.
"I thought it was very positive to have it in the morning," said Coun. Jaimie McEvoy. "I wasn't sure if people would show up, but they did."
The Hyack Festival Association normally organizes the Christmas parade, but because of internal troubles the city stepped in to oversee this year’s event.
Coun. Chuck Puchmayr said the city had about three weeks to organize the parade and ensure it didn't die. He's pleased with the results.
"It was clear," he said of the weather. "There were good crowds on the street."
Coun. Betty McIntosh said the parade was well received by the community.
"The parade was not going to die," she said. "It was well in hand by the association."
Puchmayr said there was a glitch at the beginning of the parade where it stopped moving and caused delays. The city will hold a debriefing to discuss what went well and where improvements can be made for future parades.
