Christmas on parade in downtown South Boston
- Last Updated on 01:26 PM 12/03/12
- BY The Gazette-Virginian
Downtown South Boston was indeed a winter wonderland Saturday for one of the largest Christmas parades in recent memory.
A total of 27 floats and four marching bands took part in the hour-long parade featuring the theme, “Winter Wonderland,” and the floats exemplified the theme with the use of lights and the appropriate materials.
One observer remarked it was one of the best Christmas parades he’s ever seen, a remark echoed by Christmas Parade Coordinator Sara Davis.
“The spirit of the season was felt by all when the annual Christmas parade came to life in the streets of downtown South Boston,” said Davis.
“We had 27 floats this year, more than we’ve ever had, and we’re excited that the participants took so much initiative to use their creativity.”
Floats were judged in three categories with Berry Hill Baptist Church winning for best church float, followed by County Line Baptist Church and The Worship Center.
In the non-profit category, Halifax County Middle School FFA was judged the best float, followed by Halifax County High School FFA and the Curve Huggers Motorcycle Club.
Essence of Movement Dance Studio, LLC was judged best business float, with We’ve Got Rhythm Dance Academy winning second-place and Clean Seat Portable Toilet Service, LLC winning third-place.
Essence of Movement Dance Studio also won for most creative use of lights and best themed float.
The Worship Center won first-place among musical groups, with the New Attraction Band finishing second and the Berry Hill Baptist Church musical group judged third in that category.
Patrick Henry Family Services won for best antique car, and Randy Tune won for the best equestrian entry.
Peggy Jones and her Schnauzer, Maddie, were judged best in the “dogs” category, with Sophia Decker and her Lab/Boxer, Agnes, finishing second and Phyllis Ward and her Papillon, Sassy, finishing third.
“The crowd really loved the floats, and we appreciate the fact that all the float participants took so much time and effort on their float-building,” added Davis.
“We were also excited to have four high school bands with us this year.”
Marching bands from Halifax County High School, Bluestone High School, Dan River High School and J.F. Webb High School took part in the parade.
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