Merced Christmas parade gathers large crowd, lifts holiday spirit

Holiday cheer was in full swing Saturday afternoon in downtown Merced as the 20th annual Christmas parade made its way down Main Street.

The two-hour parade, sponsored by the Active 20-30 Club, featured 77 floats, as well as school bands, churches, nonprofits and local businesses. Participants marched from G to O street, stopping in front of Bob Hart Square to salute the panel of judges.

This year’s float competition winners were Stoneridge Christian School, Golden Valley High School and First Baptist Church, who took first, second and third place, respectively. Stoneridge Christian High also took the prize for Best Theme with their “Home for the Holidays” float.

“We just wanted to honor the military and those who have served,” said Debra Morales, float designer. “I think that’s something that is always on people’s minds, especially during this time of the year.”

Organizers estimate anywhere between 10,000 to 15,000 people attend the Christmas parade each year, calling it “Merced’s biggest event.”

For Cindy Weaver, a Merced resident of 15 years, the parade has become a family tradition she shares with her husband and three sons. With her sons’ participation in band and football programs, she always has a reason to attend.

“I was just thinking how awesome it is to be here and to be part of the community,” Weaver said. “Everyone’s smiling and having a good time. … It’s something so simple but it brings us all together, and that’s what’s wonderful about it.”

The parade was followed by the Bob Hart Square Tree Lighting, which for the 11th year has been presented by MERCO Credit Union. The tree was lit by MERCO President and CEO Mike Malone, who said this year’s crowd was the largest he’s ever seen.

The daylong festivities also included a Jingle Bell run, which began at the 500 block of West Main Street and through downtown. The event was organized to benefit Toys for Tots.

A craft fair, vendors, dance performances and photos with Santa and the Grinch were also available.

Sun-Star staff writer Ana B. Ibarra can be reached at (209) 385-2486 or aibarra@mercedsunstar.com.

This story was originally published December 6, 2014 at 10:02 PM with the headline "Merced Christmas parade gathers large crowd, lifts holiday spirit."