EASLEY — The casual passerby would never have guessed the date was Dec. 5 by the sunshine in the sky but the sounds of a marching band and floats galore during the annual Easley Christmas Parade would have proven them wrong.
Residents of the city and county were in attendance in full force as Easley followed up its tree lighting festivities of the night before with a jaunt through downtown to celebrate the arrival of the holidays and usher in Christmas.
Children of all ages were all smiles as dancers, musicians, and local organizations and businesses brought their floats to town. To the delight of all, the weather cooperated and provided a clear crisp morning for all in attendance.
Fire engines blared their horns and candy filled the skies as both sides of downtown Easley were shut down to traffic. From its beginning at First Baptist Church through the completion at the end of the parade route, holiday revelers helped to bring the Christmas spirit to the Easley community.
Members of the Easley police and fire departments participated as well, helping to clear the way for the Elf of the hour, Jolly Old Saint Nick, as he made his first appearance of Christmas just in time to tease the kids into a frenzy with more than a few days to go until his big ride.
Parade watchers young and old gathered on Main Street to celebrate the start of the holiday season.
Old Engine No. 2 was decked out in its holiday finest to carry Easley City Council members Jim Robinson and Terry Moore along the parade route.
A parade just isn’t complete without a marching band.
Cub Scout Pack 130 made the rounds handing out candy.
Beauty queens are a staple in any parade and Easley’s was no different.
Bringing in the holiday season with style …
The always talented Powdersville marching Patriots made an appearance in Saturday’s parade.
These lovely ladies took the opportunity to spread an important message with their holiday cheer: “Don’t forget your mammograms this Christmas!”
Who says parades are just for people?
“Merry Christmas!”
Members and leaders of Girl Scout Troop 2580 wished everyone a joyful holiday season. Is it cookie time yet?
Putting oven mitts to good use, these “lunch ladies” have holiday recipes for fun.
These dancers came prepared! A snow machine mounted on their float set the tone for the Christmas season.
Holiday revelers helped to bring the Christmas spirit to the Easley community.
Children of all ages were all smiles as dancers, musicians, and local organizations and businesses brought their floats to town.
The traditional close to the parade was Santa Claus, who graciously took time out of his busy schedule to wave hello to Easley’s kids.