Parade brings Spirit of Christmas to Butler
Fake snow, bubbles and candy flew through the air during the 60th annual Spirit of Christmas parade on Saturday, Nov. 29.
More than 80 floats made their way down Butler’s Main Street, representing local businesses, sports teams, clubs and schools.
The parade stepped off at 5:30 p.m. at the Penn Street intersection, with the road reserved for participants only. Toward the front were Reilly Martin, 19, and Adeline Hills, 14, both of Bruin, who carried a banner for their father’s law practice.
J. Lansing Hills Esquire, according to Martin and Adeline, also sponsored Butler’s Mrs. Claus.
“It’s very exciting and fun to be in,” Adeline said of the parade, adding that she and her sister participate each year.
“It feels like a Hallmark movie,” Martin said.
The theme of this year’s parade was “Christmas through the Decades.” Entities like Butler High School’s JROTC took this to mean any decade, as their float was Revolutionary War themed.
Other floats incorporated elements of disco, a jukebox, a classic Christmas fireplace and mementos from beloved holiday films. At least five vehicles were Grinch themed.
Butler Radio Network and Peoples Gas sponsored the event and brought their own floats to the parade. The radio’s display included a human-sized balloon animal and a walking Krampus.
The Butler Transit Authority has been in the parade each year as well, according to its executive director, John Paul.
He said the organization was always praised for its Santa bus, complete with a custom-made red suit. However, Paul said he was unable to find someone who could make a suit big enough for the newer buses.
As a result, Butler Transit Authority has featured a Rudolph-themed bus for the past three years.
Butler Mayor Bob Dandoy said the Spirit of Christmas Parade is always an exciting night for the city, adding that he looks forward to it every year.
Before the parade, activities were available for children under 10 including balloon art, face painting and games.
