Even the rain couldn’t dampen the spirits of those attending the Hayden Lights Parade and Christmas Tree Lighting event conducted by the city of Hayden on Dec. 7 at McIntire Family Park. Hundreds of area residents and visitors didn’t let the inclement weather stop them from enjoying the annual event, which is becoming a favorite of the community.

Government Way in downtown Hayden was lined with hundreds of people to watch the parade led by Santa Claus and 2019 Distinguished Veteran Charles Riffel. The parade showcased decorated, holiday-themed floats and vehicles and included the Hayden mayor and City Council, Kootenai County Honor Guard, Hayden Meadows Elementary and Atlas Elementary Special Choruses, Blazen Divas, Alta Dance Studio, Northern Lakes Fire District, Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office and many more.

Parade units were judged by Hayden Parks, Recreation and Community Forestry Commission members. The winners of this year’s parade were Blazen Divas for Best in Parade and Alta Dance Studio for Holiday Extraordinaire and Superior Towing for Judges’ Choice.

Immediately following the parade, everyone gathered at McIntire Family Park for refreshments and the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony. While waiting for the ceremony to begin, Atlas and Hayden Meadows Elementary Schools Special Choruses led the crowd in singing some of their favorite Christmas songs, performed Jingle Bells and led the community sing-a-long of Silent Night. Afterward, Mayor Steve Griffitts, along with Jennifer Arrotta and students from the choirs, pulled the switch to light the breathtaking, 40-foot tall Christmas tree, which brought cheers and applause from the audience. The evening was brought to a close with the arrival of Santa Claus, so he could hear the wishes of excited children in Hayden City Hall Council Chambers.

This year’s event was made possible through donations by P1FCU (event sponsor), Super 1 Foods, Boy Scouts Troop 911, Inland Traffic Control, Inc., LaRiviere, Inc., Hayden Veterans Commission, Hayden Parks, Recreation & Community Forestry Commission, USMCR Toys for Tots, Richard Panabaker and Bill Batdorf. Individuals or businesses interested in volunteering for or participating in the event next year can contact the Hayden Recreation and Community Events Department at 208-209-1080.