Pets, piccolos and packs of Cub Scouts, among other groups, will march in Butler County's biggest annual parade at 10 a.m. Friday.

More than 80 floats, marching bands and community groups are scheduled to appear in this year's Spirit of Christmas Parade. Last year, 71 entrants participated. There were 65 entries the year before that.

This year, for the 40th anniversary of the parade, the theme will be "Storybook Christmas." The Butler Eagle is sponsoring the event for a third year.

Leading the parade will be the grand marshal, Guy Travaglio, who is retiring as a long-time state Representative in the 11th District.

The reviewing stand will be in front of the Butler County Courthouse. That's where each group will stop to perform its routine.

Bands from Butler, Moniteau, Karns City and Clarion-Limestone high schools, along with the Flames and Flickers, will play holiday tunes.

Three or four fire companies are expected.

All groups will set out from Penn Avenue and proceed south. Main Street between Pearl and Penn will be closed at 8:30 a.m. Main Street from Pearl through Wayne will close at 9:30 p.m. Again this year, the CB Rangers will help with traffic flow.

The groups in the parade will assemble in three parking lots near Pearl Street.

Floats gather in the lot at the Westminster Presbyterian Church on Main Street. The church allows participants to use the restrooms or use the church if it rains. Church member Harry Glenn volunteers to make calls to parade entrants where needed.

Community groups are eligible for cash awards for best overall, most original, best theme and best appearance. Commercial entries can win first, second and third place plaques.

Judging will be Sally Bowser, Robert Newcaster and Shirley Protzman. Master of ceremonies will be Michelle Jurysta.

All entrants will receive a framed certificate.

At the end of the line will be the big guy himself, Santa Claus riding on his sleigh drawn by horses. Santa will then greet visitors in his house in Diamond Park. Children who talk with Santa will receive a gift.

Butler Eagle representatives during the parade will hand out a special section with Santa letters and coloring contest entries.