COEUR d’ALENE — Ryan and Jamey Gallion recently moved to Coeur d’Alene, so Friday night was their first time watching the annual downtown Lighting Ceremony Parade.

It was everything they and their children hoped for — and more.

“It was magical,” Jamey Gallion said. “It’s not even December. The whole town gets together.”

Count Ryan Gallion as a believer in the magic of this parade.
“We’ll never miss any of it now that we live here,” he said. “The kids loved it, couldn’t get enough of it.”

Under picturesque, moonlit, starry skies, thousands of kids and adults packed Sherman Avenue and were treated to a smile-filled, joyous parade with the theme, “A Coeur d’Alene Holiday Vacation.”

Veterans led things off, followed by elves, snowmen, a pair of sasquatch, dancing potatoes, the Lake City High School marching band, Christmas canines, several Grinch, lighted rigs and finally, Santa Claus.

Everyone was delighted as cheers, applause and shouts of Merry Christmas filled the air on this chilly, 30-degree night.

Chase  Goeltzenleuchter dressed for the part of cousin Eddie from the movie Christmas Vacation, as he stood on the back of a truck and waved to the crowd.

“I love Christmas Vacation,” he said. "Cousin Eddie, he’s the best.”

Doug Giovanelli and Chelsea Holmes with the Coeur d’Alene School spread Christmas cheer along the parade route that went from Eighth and Sherman to the intersection of Government Way and Northwest Boulevard.

“We’re feeling amazing,” said Holmes, who wore a green Santa cap and lights on her sweater. “I'm ready to gift others."

Giovanelli sported a Hawaiian outfit, complete with lei, grass hula skirt and aloha shirt.

“I’ve been to Hawaii a couple times. That’s the theme, right?” he said. Then, he added with a laugh, “I’m numb.”

Holmes said she was having a great time and loved being part of the school district.

“Ohana means family,” she said. 

Jenna Koppa with Idaho Central Central Union, parade sponsor, was joined by her family as the gave out grins and treats.

“Love our company, love our community,” she said.

Amy Hofer and children Colton, Keeley and Easton waved to Santa as he finally approached at the end of the parade.

Easton, asked for his favorite part of the parade, hesitated until his mom said, “the police officers?”

“Yes,” he said.

Keeley answered quickly: “Santa.”

Amy Hofer said this year’s parade organized by the Coeur d'Alene Downtown Association was one of the best.

“The weather was perfect,” she said. “It was awesome.”

Next, the crowd slowly made its way to the front of The Coeur d’Alene Resort for the 36th annual lighting ceremony, followed by a fireworks show over Lake Coeur d’Alene, courtesy of the Hagadone family.

“I always enjoy this,” said Brad Hagadone, chairman of the Hagadone Corp.  “The closest I’ll ever get to being a rock star, I guess," he added as the crowd laughed.

Following a few songs, capped by the singing of Silent Night, guest of honor Rick Powers, director of food and beverage for Hagadone Hospitality, led the countdown to the spectacular fireworks display that received a huge round o applause.

“The best one ever,” shouted one person in the crowd.

Brad Hagadone said they're happy to fund the show.

“I’m proud to live here,” he said. “It just feels good to give back.”

   Amy Hofer, holding son Colton, and Diane Lawson holding Keeley Hofer, and Easton Hofer wave to Santa Claus in the Lighting Ceremony Parade on Friday in Coeur d'Alene.

    Tina Batha, left, Shannon Coder, and Floyd Duggar ride in the Toys for Tots vehicle in the Lighting Ceremony Parade on Friday in Coeur d'Alene.
  

  

    Fireworks courtesy of the Hagadone family explode over Lake Coeur d'Alene on Friday after the parade.