by Elizabeth Connolly
Hometown Weekly Reporter
One of Walpole’s most beloved seasonal traditions — the Santa Parade — made its cheerful return the Saturday after Thanksgiving, bringing festive energy and a wave of holiday spirit to town. Hundreds of locals bundled up against the cold and lined the streets to welcome the big guy in red, marking the community’s unofficial start to the holiday season.
The parade route began at Walpole High School and traveled down Common Street before making its way to the town center, where families, friends and neighbors gathered with blankets, warm drinks and plenty of excitement. Despite the chilly air, the atmosphere was unmistakably warm as residents greeted each other and settled in for one of the town’s favorite annual events.
Right at 11 a.m., the parade stepped off with flashing lights and sirens from the Walpole Police and Fire Department vehicles leading the way. They were followed by a spirited procession of local businesses and organizations, many riding on floats or trucks adorned with eye-catching decorations. Crowds especially enjoyed spotting familiar characters like the Abominable Snowman from Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, the Grinch, and even Elmo from Sesame Street, who added an extra touch of holiday fun.
Local Scout troops marched proudly on foot, waving to spectators as the high school band filled the streets with classic holiday tunes. Several dance studios dazzled paradegoers with lively performances, while a collection of well-preserved classic cars drew admiration up and down the route. Toward the end of the procession, a truck carrying local resident and performer Ed Jackwoski rolled by, with Jackwoski enthusiastically singing “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town” and other seasonal favorites. Children leaned forward in anticipation, knowing his appearance meant Santa wasn’t far behind.
“It feels like this parade gets better every year, doesn’t it?” one onlooker said. “And the word must be spreading, because the crowd feels bigger than ever!”
The celebration continued later that evening with a tree-lighting ceremony on the town common. Residents gathered once again to admire the beautiful lights and decorations installed by Walpole Lights, the newly coordinated all-volunteer group responsible for the town’s holiday displays. The Santa Parade itself is organized annually by the Walpole Chamber of Commerce.
