The rain came down but Santa still made his visit to Henryetta Saturday night.
Several hundred people braved the threat of storms and stood in the rain as the annual Henryetta Chamber of Commerce Christmas parade was held.
"We want to thank everyone who turned out, the spectators and the participants that made this year's parade a success," said chamber parade chairman Lyle Stogner. "We had a variety of entries that sported all kinds of lights and kept with the 'A Classic Christmas' theme."
The parade featured the entire Henryetta Tennis Association as Grand Marshal. Stogner said the organization's efforts in restoring the Main Street Tennis Courts at a cost of over $250,000 raised primarily through private donations, has provided the community with an exceptional recreational venue.
Asociation members kept the spirit of giving alive as they presented a number of tennis racquets to spectators and tossed out tennis balls along the parade route.
The award winners included: Best of Theme: Hillcrest Henryetta Hospital; Classic Vehicle: Jim Beymer; Best Use of Lights: Knights Mail and Printing Plus; Best Business: Atlink Services; Best Church: Tabernacle of Praise; Best School: Henryetta Knight Brigade marching band; Best ATV/Motorcycle: HOTT Henryetta Off Road Track and Trail; Best Family: Lewis Family Christmas Train.
The evening started with a visit by Santa and his elf handing out candy and posing for photos at Veterans Park.
"We are thankful for the dedicated volunteers that work on the committee and the City of Henryetta’s staff to include our Mayor Jennifer Clason, City Manager Ted Graham, Chief of Police Steve Norman, Fire Chief David Bullard, and so many others that make the event happen each year," Stogner said.
AEP-PSO was the Presenting Sponsor of the parade.
Parade and award photos:
