As predicted, Santa arrived in style this year for the Red Kettle Parade, sporting a horse drawn trolley in lieu of his usual red sleigh.
Accompanying Santa on the trolley were his good friend Frosty the Snowman along with his trusty reindeer Rudolph.
Organized by the Warren Main Street Organization, the annual Christmas Walk was a great success drawing in a large crowd that spanned the length of the parade route. The parade included floats from groups such as the Salvation Army and the Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints as well as performances from the Warren Area High School Marching Band and Color Guard and the Linda Dies Dance Express, among others.
Article Photos
Times Observer photo by Brian Collins
Kettle Bells Ring
The ringing of bells accompanied the sound of carols, laughter and holiday festivities as the Red Kettle Parade made its way through downtown Warren Friday night. Organized by Warren Main Street, the parade turned out to be a great success despite the presence of a less than desirable weather. Pictured is the float prepared by the Salvation Army.
Despite the slight drizzle, there was caroling, hot cocoa and chestnuts roasting, along with window displays featuring performances by groups such as the Allegheny Center for the Arts' Ukulele Band. There were even freshly made miniature donuts available from one of the vendors.
Excitement surrounded the greatly anticipated arrival of Santa at the Liberty Street Santa House where crowds began to gather as soon as the parade passed. He arrived to cheers and smiles as he stopped and said hello along the way. Kevin Seelinger, who has played Santa for 31 years including 10 years for the Christmas Walk, was grateful to be a part of the event. "I started years ago as a favor to a good friend and it's been a pleasure for me every year since."
"Once again, the parade turned out wonderfully," said Dan Ristau, President of Warren Main Street. "The rain held off, there are lots of people downtown, and all the stores and businesses turned out great. I'm really pleased with the turn out."