Marching bands, dance troupes and local figures joined fire trucks and floats on a cold, windy Wilmington morning before a lively family crowd. The parade marched nine blocks along Market Street, from Second Street to 11th Street.

Children performed holiday-themed dance routines at the end of the route in front of a stage outside the Hotel du Pont. Danceworks studio director in New Castle, Amanda Pollard, is a veteran of the parades and was excited for her dancers to have the opportunity.

“They can bring joy and people can see what we’re doing,” she said.

The marching band from the Cab Calloway School of Arts in Wilmington was the last band in the parade, warming up for the guest of honor, Santa Claus. The marching band played holiday songs throughout the route. Terry Oncay is the godfather of a student in the band and helps with stages and props for their performances. He sees this parade as a unique opportunity to build community.