by Elizabeth Connolly
Hometown Weekly Reporter
Walpole’s beloved Santa Parade was back last Saturday and, judging by the size of the crowd, the town was ready for him! Despite being a chilly morning, hundreds of locals bundled up and came out to welcome the big guy in red and enjoy the annual kickoff to the holiday season.
The parade route, which began at the high school and traveled down Common Street before ending at the town center, was lined with gloved adults and mittened children. Many folks brought extra blankets or cups of coffee and hot chocolate to keep warm. Despite all the added layers, the excitement was palpable as friends, family and neighbors greeted each other.
The parade began promptly at 11 a.m., led by Walpole Police and Fire Department vehicles. Though noisy, their presence was not unwelcome, as most of the kids covering their ears were smiling. They were followed by local businesses and organizations, many with beautifully decorated vehicles and signs. Any child that was still reeling from the sirens quickly caught on that many of the people on these cars and trucks were tossing candy into the crowds. This expeditiously won them over and soon you could see children darting about after each throw, gathering handfuls of the valuable commodity.
Local Scout troops marched along on foot, waving to the crowd, and the high school band kept spirits high with holiday tunes. Several dance studios also participated in the parade, delighting attendees with their acts. Many well-preserved classic cars also took part, receiving considerable admiration from onlookers. Towards the end of the parade, a truck carrying local resident and performer Ed Jackwoski, who was appropriately singing “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas,” went by, and the children stood at attention, waiting for Mr. and Mrs. Claus.
“I’ve been coming to this parade for years,” one mom, a longtime resident, said. “First without kids and now with them. It’s such a nice tradition. I love watching my son and daughter’s faces light up when they see Santa. It’s really heartwarming.”
A tree lighting ceremony took place later that evening on the town common, where everyone was able to take a first look at the beautiful lights and decorations that were hung by the all-volunteer group “Light Up Walpole”.
