ESCANABA — Organizers say there were a lot of good floats in this year’s Escanaba Christmas Parade. Seventy-two entries made their way
down Ludington Street Friday for the annual event.
Taking first place in the parade were Elmer’s County Market in the commercial category and Holy Name Catholic School in the non-commercial category.
Parade Judge Paul Harvey said choosing winners this year was very tough.
“It was a major step up in the quality of floats this year. Lighting, music, animation and signage ruled the parade,” Harvey said.
The winning commercial float was a snow globe with the store’s Elmer character inside amid blowing snow. Students walked with the Holy Name float featuring a manger and lighted star.
Placing second in the commercial category was Gene’s Towing. Embers Credit Union placed third.
In the non-commercial category, Scout Troop 408 placed second. Toys for Tots took third.
“It was a wonderful parade with lots of parade goers,” said Janice Beauchamp, Escanaba Downtown Development Authority Board member and parade coordinator. “We certainly appreciate everyone coming out on a cold Friday night and all of the businesses and organizations that participate. It was really good.”
Following the parade, Santa and Mrs. Clause met with children at the Escanaba Marketplace.