Snow and Santa for Hayden Lights Parade

HAILEY HILL | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 1 year, 3 months AGO

Santa and Mrs. Claus wave to paradegoers along Government Way on Saturday night.
HAILEY HILL/Press

Local dancers grin their way through rain and snow during the Hayden Lights Parade on Saturday night.

Olaf delighted paradegoers along Government Way.

The Blazen Divaz were a delight along Government Way on Saturday night.

The Christmas tree next to Hayden City Hall was a sight to behold following the lighting ceremony Saturday night.

HAYDEN — Government Way was the site of an early Christmas miracle Saturday night as snow fell on the yearly Lights Parade.

Hundreds of families bundled up to watch the festive procession make its way down Government Way, which featured Christmas lights, local dance groups and even an appearance from Santa Claus.

Of course, the Grinch also made an appearance. The infamous Christmas antihero was greeted by chants of “Lock him up!” as he rode in a holding cell pulled by the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office.

The cold, wet conditions certainly didn’t dampen attendees’ Christmas spirit.

“It was cold but so fun!” said Breanne Edgel of Hayden. “My boys loved the firetrucks and ambulances, especially.”

“This is my favorite event of the year,” said Recreation and Events Community Director Suzanne Cano. “I think the rain and snow kept some people away, but we still had a great turnout.”

Several parade floats were recognized for their creativity and spirit, including those of Vine Church and KCSO.

Attendees also sang along to Christmas songs with the choir from Skyway Elementary before the Christmas tree next to Hayden City Hall was lit up in festive colors.

“We have a lot to be thankful for,” Mayor Alan Davis told the crowd just before the tree was lit. “We live in a beautiful area, and we are at peace.”