Decatur holds annual Christmas Parade, Santa reception

Parade viewed as huge success by Decatur Chamber of Commerce

DECATUR — The Decatur Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Christmas Parade through downtown Decatur and a Santa reception in the community room at Decatur City Hall on Friday.

The parade began at Decatur City Hall and was led by a decorated city of Decatur truck with Mayor Bob Tharp, council members Linda Martin and Sandy Duncan, and city clerk Kim Wilkins on board. The Decatur High School marching band, led by assistant drum major Austin Hamilton, provided the seasonal music, setting the tone for the parade.

This year’s parade drew twice as many floats and decorated vehicles than in years past. Included this year were entries from First Baptist Church of Decatur, Living Water Ministries, Decatur Sale Barn Church, Decatur 4-H, Simmons Christmas express tractor, and a rather elaborately decorated old car called the Broadbooks family fan wagon.

Following the float were three units from the Decatur Fire Department. Riding on the front bumper of 2418, the newest truck in the department’s fleet, were special guests, Santa and Mrs. Claus.

After the parade, the Chamber hosted a reception and children of all ages had a chance to sit on Santa’s lap and convey their Christmas wishes. Each child received a gift bag filled with candy, fruits and other trinkets put together by members of the chamber.

The winners in the 2017 float decorating contest were Living Waters Ministries — first; First Baptist Church of Decatur — second; and Decatur 4-H — third.

The Decatur Chamber of Commerce expressed thanks to all the sponsors, volunteers and participants for making this year’s event a big success.

Westside Eagle Observer/MIKE ECKELS Members of the Living Waters Ministries walk along their float as it passes through downtown Decatur during the Chambers of Commerce annual Christmas Parade Dec. 8. This entry took first place in the non-profit division of the float competition.

Westside Eagle Observer/MIKE ECKELS Hannah Smith (1) and her brother Logan (6) sit on Santa’s lap for a photo during the Santa reception portion of the Decatur Christmas Parade in Decatur Dec. 8.

Westside Eagle Observer/MIKE ECKELS The Decatur 4-H float makes its way through downtown Decatur during the annual Decatur Christmas Parade Dec. 8. The 4-H entry took third place in the non-profit division of the float competition.

Westside Eagle Observer/MIKE ECKELS The First Baptist Church of Decatur float makes its way through downtown Decatur and past the library during the annual Decatur Christmas Parade Dec. 8. First Baptist’s entry took second place in the non-profit division of the float competition.