Parade of Lights shines through downtown Napanee

By Lori-Anne Little

 

NAPANEE – The streets of Napanee were glowing this past Saturday as the Parade of Lights made its way through town.

 

The parade is a community tradition that has been a part of many families’ holiday season for the past 15 years. Floats covered in holiday lights made their way though the streets, while even more twinkling lights adorned the outside of the shops.

“I moved here three years ago from Ottawa, and my family has been here every year,”says Jonathan Daniel, parent of three and local business owner. “We absolutely love it. The vibe of the town, all the lights, all the people are so generous and having such a good time. We would never miss it.”

His family is excited every year to to watch the dazzling floats light up the town, he said, adding that his kids ask him all the time about when they will get go to the parade again. “They look forward to it. They can’t wait. They love the lights, and they obviously love Santa Claus.”

Kyra, Daniel’s daughter, especially looks forward to the parade. She says that her favourite part is watching all the dance teams twirl and tumble through the streets, but she also loves the time that she gets to spend with her family while watching all the lights. Her father says that his favourite part of the parade is “the family community that Napanee has.”

 

 “I love this town and it’s important to show support,” he said. The parade “was a great opportunity to bring my three young kids, so they can enjoy the festivities with everybody.”

Over 3,000 people watch the parade each year.

 

With more people attending the parade every year the route was changed in order to make sure the larger floats could easily get around and everyone could enjoy it.