Santa wouldn't miss it
All the parade favorites such as fire trucks and marching bands, not to mention the Big Guy himself, will frequent the 43rd Spirit of Christmas Parade.
"Butler is one of the most popular stops in my travels before the big night," said Santa Claus. "I never fail to see throngs of people come out to see the parade despite the weather. It warms my heart.
"And all the children who come to see me are polite and enjoy talking with me."
Starting at 10 a.m. Friday, about 100 entrants once again will parade down Main Street. The theme this year is "Christmas Traditions," which entrants must use if they want to be judged for prizes.
Again this year The Butler Eagle and Embarq are sponsoring the event.
Butler Eagle General Manager Ron Vodenichar will be the master of ceremonies.
Starting out the parade will be a police escort, Butler JROTC and sheriff's posse on horseback.
After the escorts and dignitaries will be the Butler Golden Tornado Marching Band, which in the past has led the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City and participated in many others.
Other marching musical groups include the Flames and Flickers and the General Butler Vagabonds.
The parade will go south on Main Street from Penn Street toward Wayne Street. Main Street will be closed about 9 a.m. The CB Rangers will help police officers direct traffic.
The reviewing stand will be at Diamond Park across from the courthouse, where each group will stop to perform its routine.Because the groups will set out from Penn Street and proceed south, traffic will be restricted on Penn Street between McKean and Washington streets.Westminster Presbyterian Church on Main Street will be open to help entrants gathering for the parade.All entrants will receive a framed certificate.Community groups are eligible for cash awards for best overall, most original, best theme and best appearance.Commercial entries will compete for first, second and third place plaques.Before the parade, Butler Eagle representatives will distribute a special handout for a coloring contest.Following the parade, Santa will receive visitors at the Butler Penn Theater, 151 N. Main St., through 2 p.m. Children can tell Santa their fondest wishes and receive a treat bag.Said Santa, "Santa really appreciates the hospitality of the Penn Theater so that all the little boys and girls waiting to see Santa don't have to stand out in the cold."
