Snow creates winter wonderland for Polson parade

As plump snowflakes fell, a crowd assembled on Main Street in Polson Friday night in hopes that St. Nicholas soon would arrive. And sure enough, he did – along with the Grinch, floats and firetrucks.

But before the Polson Chamber’s Parade of Lights got underway, kids took over the street in front of the VFW for a rambunctious snowball fight – a good thing too, since snow soon turned to rain and the three inches of white fluff were mostly gone by morning.

This year’s parade boasted 22 entries, including illuminated floats created by businesses, banks, hospitals, youth groups and local churches. According to Polson Chamber administrator Lori Abramson, participation was down from 27 entries in 2024 – a drop that could have been weather related since some businesses had to tend to their customers.

Murdoch’s captured the Best of Parade award with a float emblazoned with “Merry Christmas, From Our Herd to Yours.” Eagle Bank won the “Most Creative” title and Adam Probst’s State Farm float was deemed “Most Humorous.” Immaculate Conception Catholic Church was judged to have the Best Light Display.

The Gingerbread Man meandered down Main Street pulling a wagon filled with goodies, which were dispersed by his helper. One bystander asked if he knew Frosty the Snow Man.

Abramson says safety is always a concern along the parade route, especially with children scampering into the street to secure candy.

“Mother Nature gifted us with a beautiful snowy evening during our winter parade; however, that also created dangerous conditions,” she said.

To address those issues, participants are coached in advance of the safety rules and potential hazards, and each float is required to have “wheel walkers,” while those who toss candy are instructed to aim for the sidewalks.

The chamber also worked with members of the Polson High swim and basketball teams on crowd control and the girls basketball team on street clean-up and keeping Main Street safe for float participants.

“The chamber is deeply thankful for everyone who joined us for the Parade of Lights," Abramson said. "And we are happy to report that the event went safely and smoothly for the community to attend."

    Kids took advantage of Friday's snowfall and a blocked off Main Street to stage an epic snowball fight in front of the VFW prior to Polson's Parade of Lights. (Kristi Niemeyer/Leader)
  

    Santa cruised through Polson Friday night on his sleigh, aided by some elf-like assistants. (Kristi Niemeyer/Leader)
  

    Murdoch's float won Best of Parade at Polson's Parade of Lights last Friday. (Kristi Niemeyer/Leader)
  

    JoLeah Nicholas, and instructor at Head Over Heels, was both tossing and tasting lollipops during Polson's Parade of Lights. (Kristi Niemeyer/Leader)