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By Carey Reeder | Managing Editor

Downtown Clanton played host to its annual Christmas parade and tree lighting on Dec. 6 that filled the streets and sidewalks with Christmas cheer. The Rotary Club of Chilton County hosted the parade and tree lighting that not only put smiles on faces, but also helped contribute to a great cause for the Chilton County DHR Foster Christmas program. The funds were presented to the Chilton County DHR by the Rotary Club on Dec. 11.

“The parade has always been good … We want all that can come,” Clanton Mayor Jeff Mims said. “I think people around here look for something to do, and this is a good place to do it right in the center of the state, and the whole county can come here and they do.”

The festivities started with over 100 floats in the parade meandering through the streets of Clanton throwing out candy and showcasing their different designs and themes. Each float was decorated as a Christmas favorite, and three floats were selected as the best by local, volunteer and random judges. Signature Studio of Dance’s ‘Letters to Santa’ float took first place, followed by Central Chaos Softball’s Polar Express themed float in second place and Day’s Party Rentals ‘Snowman Igloo’ float in third place.

As the parade concluded its route, the crowd descended upon downtown Clanton and Corner Park for the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree. The lighting was accompanied by food trucks, amusement rides, local vendors and storefront businesses with sales on Christmas gifts.

Mims added that he wants to make a few changes to the parade and tree lighting event next year to make it safer, and enhance the experience for all residents who come out.

Photos by BRANDON EVANS | CONTRIBUTED

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