Spirits were high along Government Way in Hayden on Saturday morning, as the annual Hayden Days parade made its way from Hayden Avenue to Honeysuckle Avenue in front of thousands.  

No Limits Aviation did their much-anticipated flyover just before things kicked off, thrilling onlookers as children and parents waved to the planes passing overhead. The parade was led by 2023’s Distinguished Veteran of the Year and Grand Marshal Christopher Spatz as well as multiple police vehicles.  

As promised, the parade featured more incredible local dance talent than ever. Several girls from Spotlight Studios North Star were sent soaring through the air, while the Blazen Divas and other local groups jazzed up the crowd from ground level. Live music from groups such as The Vine Idaho also kept up the lively atmosphere. 

For some, the star of Saturday’s procession was none other than Santa Claus. Brothers Barrett, 4, and Connor, 2, have been coming to the Hayden Days Parade with their parents “every year” — and when Santa made an appearance in last year’s parade with the Hayden Chamber of Commerce, Barrett couldn’t wait to come back in hopes to get another glimpse of the Big Man himself. 

Ron and Maggie Reno, of Hayden, had their grandson, C.J., hop aboard their float, “The Hayden Express,” for his first ride. Nine-year-old Elisabeth and 7-year-old Timmy Jr. of Coeur d’Alene were all smiles as they sat on the curb along Government Way to take in the parade for the first time.  

“It’s our first time; it’s cool,” said Elisabeth and Timmy Jr.’s father, Timmy Sr. “It’s great to be here.” 

Following the parade, the celebration continued with the annual Hayden Days car show and a performance from the Hayden Senior Center Line Dancers. The annual Hayden’s Got Talent show and live music from the Rhythm Dawgs kept the festivities rolling well into the afternoon and evening.  

    All aboard The Hayden Express! C.J. Reno joined his grandparents, Ron and Maggie Reno, for a ride down Government Way as part of the parade.
  

    Timmy Jr., 7, and his sister Elisabeth, 9, take in the Hayden Days Parade for the first time.
  

    Reaching for the skies: Elisabeth, 9, and her dad, Timmy Sr., look up as No Limits Aviation conducts their annual flyover.