Snowflakes & Mittens” was the theme for the kick-off to holiday season in Watseka (Friday evening).

The Iroquois County Historical and Genealogy Society made the most of that theme, earning the Best of Theme Award during the Christmas Parade.

The Best Float among the parade entries was one displayed by the Watseka Public Works Department. And the Public Works employees were recognized as the parade’s Grand Marshals –for their efforts in making the City so much more attractive…Hats off to all, says Watseka Area Chamber of Commerce Exec Director Amanda Hibbs …

Despite the colder weather, visitors lined the streets along that parade route. That too, was noticed…

Mayor John Allhands lit the Post Office Christmas Tree downtown, prior to the parade stepping off.

Watseka’s Festival Committee welcomed the holiday spirit with its FIRST Winterfest Celebration (in the First Trust & Savings Bank parking lot). That, Amanda Hibbs said, added to a festive atmosphere…Hibbs added, all the parade entries were a big hit; the community retailers added their local flavor and the smiles said it all.

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