NORWICH — The 20th annual Parade of Lights was a huge success this year, and according to event organizer Michael McCormack, it was one of the best turnouts on record.
Some 64 parading floats braved Saturday evening’s chilly temperature to watch the hour and ten minute spectacle.
“This was the smoothest holiday parade of my tenure as the parade organizer,” said McCormack. “Everything was spectacular this year, I've never heard so many compliments about the quality of the floats — everyone did a great job this year.”
According to McCormack, North and South Broad streets were lined three deep on both sides. “Norwich Police said they thought it was the biggest crowd ever,” McCormack said. “We ended the parade with entertainment from Kaitlyn and John Jackson.
“American Fireworks put on the most amazing fireworks display over the East Side Park from the lot behind Preferred Mutual Insurance Company building.”
Along with the parade, the winner of the Norwich Small Business Saturday Balloon Pop contest was announced from the judges stand in front of the Chenango County Court House.
Maureen Cashman was the winner, taking home a the grand prize valued at more the $600.
“The collaboration with the Norwich Merchants and Small Business Saturday event with the The Evening Sun and Pennysaver’s annual parade planning along with the community participation was what made the event such a success” McCormack said.
Winners of the judged float entries were divided into three catagories, here are the results:
Fire Departments
1st: City of Norwich Fire Truck 233 / Ontario Hose Company
2nd: City of Norwich Fire Dept Truck 232 -Maydole Hose Company
3rd: Genegantslet Fire Dept
4th: Plymouth Volunteer Firemans
Floats - Adult Division
